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

Steyn, N.; Binny, R. N.; Hannah, K.; Hendy, S.; James, A.; Lustig, A.; Ridings, K.; Plank, M. J.; Sporle, A.

Aims. We aim to quantify differences in clinical outcomes from COVID-19 infection 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. M[a]ori have 2.5 times greater odds of hospitalisation than non-M[a]ori, non-Pacific people, after controlling for age and pre-existing conditions. Similarly, Pacific people have 3 times greater odds. Conclusions. Structural inequities and systemic racism in the healthcare system mean that M[a]ori 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.