Exploring the Spatial Distribution of Air Pollutants and COVID-19 Death Rate: A Case Study for Los Angeles County, California

Abstract: Since March 2020, COVID-19 has spread globally, resulting in millions of deaths. The role of air pollutants in exacerbating respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 remains unclear. While regional studies have explored this association, its consistency at the neighborhood level is uncertain. This study compares weekly COVID-19 death rates across 11 neighborhoods in Los Angeles County. Air pollutant data from EPA sensors in these neighborhoods are analyzed. Results show that neighborhoods with higher COVID-19 death rates tend to have higher levels of NO2, CO, ozone, and PM10. This suggests a potential causal link between air pollutants and COVID-19 deaths, highlighting the need for urban planners and policymakers to address urban air pollution for public health reasons.