The Association Between Air Quality Parameters and COVID-19 in Turkey

ABSTRACT

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an invisible enemy that has made people observe issues such as eating habits, personal hygiene, and environmental factors that may affect their immune systems. Objectives: Because air pollution can affect the immune system, it is necessary to examine the relationship between air quality parameters and COVID-19. Methods: his study examines the correlation between air quality and COVID-19 considering 7 air pollutants PM10, SO2, CO, NO2, NOx, NO, and O3. The confirmed COVID-19 cases were considered from 9 provinces, accounting for 78% of the total cases in Turkey. The required data were collected from the websites of the country’s relevant official institutions. Two statistical tests, the Pearson correlation, and Spearman Rho were conducted to determine any potential linear and monotonic relationships. Results: Based on both test results, a significant positive correlation was observed between air SO2 content and the number of COVID-19 cases in Turkey. Conclusion: The outcomes could help identify provincial actions or measures.