PI Dr Beatrice Ezenwa (Neonatologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital and a member of the Neonatal Nutrition Network) £4,000 from RSTMH 2021 Small Grant Scheme.
Studies have shown differences in the effects of COVID-19 lockdown measures on health systems and the health of children in different settings.
We will evaluate the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on health-seeking behaviour in 7 hospitals in Nigeria reflecting different geographical and socio-economic zones. In a retrospective analysis of admission notes and hospital records, we will assess 1) frequency of institutional deliveries and 2) age at presentation, severity of illness and outcomes of out-born neonatal admissions to the neonatal wards before (March 2019 to February 2020) and during (March 2020 to February 2021) the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Our findings will aid response to the current and future pandemics in low and middle-income countries.