COVID-19 in Douala-Cameroon: Epidemiologic features, challenges to fight the pandemic, and psychosocio-economic impacts

Abstract

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that can cause illnesses such as the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). In 2019, a new coronavirus was identified as the cause of a disease outbreak that originated in China. Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in a growing number of cities worldwide. Cameroon recorded the first case of the Coronavirus on March 6, 2020 and thereafter, there was a geometric increase in the number of cases. In response to this, the government announced firm measures in an effort to curb the exponential increase of the Coronavirus cases in the country. Despite the measures, the number of cases has continued to increase, coupled with another unwanted socio-economic phenomenon. This study aims to present the challenges to fight COVID-19 in Cameroon urban settlements as with the case of Douala metropolitan city, to examine its geographical distribution pattern, and to apprehend its socio-economic impacts on Douala city dwellers. Data used here derived from local and national health statistics, and from a cross-sectional study conducted in Douala city from May to December 2020. Results reveal that coherent measures were taken by health officials to fight the pandemics. However, spread of the virus has continued in the city, under a differentiated dissemination pattern. Findings also revealed that during lockdown, the city witnessed downturn in the economy, increase in domestic violence and mental health problems. The study recommends the effective follow-up of the measures put in place by the government as well as all the stakeholders, the financial support of enterprises and an aggressive sensitization of the population.