Māori and Pacific People in New Zealand have higher risk of hospitalisation for COVID-19

Abstract

Aims. We aim to quantify differences in clinical outcomes from COVID-19 infection in Aotearoa New Zealand by ethnicity with a focus on risk of hospitalisation. Methods. We used data on age, ethnicity, deprivation index, pre-existing health conditions, and clinical outcomes on 1,829 COVID-19 cases reported in New Zealand. We used a logistic regression model to calculate odds ratios for the risk of hospitalisation by ethnicity. We also consider length of hospital stay and risk of fatality. Results. Māori have 2.50 times greater odds of hospitalisation (95% CI 1.39 - 4.51) than non-Māori, non-Pacific people, after controlling for age and pre-existing conditions. Pacific people have 3 times greater odds (95% CI 1.75 - 5.33). Conclusions. Structural inequities and systemic racism in the healthcare system mean that Māori and Pacific communities face a much greater health burden from COVID-19. Older people and those with pre-existing health conditions are also at greater risk. This should inform future policy decisions including prioritising groups for vaccination.