Epidemiological Features and Hotspot of COVID-19 in Isfahan Province of Iran: Results of A Cohort Study

Abstract Background and Aim: The aim of this study was to description of the epidemiological features and hotspot of COVID-19 in Isfahan province of Iran.Method: In this descriptive, retrospective cohort, multicenter study, all patients admitted to one of the hospitals or health networks of Isfahan province from 3rd February to 13th June 2020 due to RT-PCR (Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction) test were enrolled to study. Trained staff followed up participants for two weeks by a Telephone number, and the outcome was recorded.Result: Up to 13 June, 41,498 patients recruited and their data were analyzed; the incidence of COVID-19 was 27.5% (95% CI: 27.1, 28.2). Among the participants with the positive test, 93.2% of them, treated by outpatient basis or discharged, 2.1% were hospitalized, and the case fatality rate (CFR) was 4.8%. Khansar and Aradestan was the hotspot of COVID-19 and had the highest incidence among cities of Isfahan province. Najafabad, Khomeinishahr, and Shahinshahr&Meymeh had the highest imported cases of COVID-19 to the capital of Isfahan province, Isfahan city. Also, Charmahal & Bakhtiari, Khuzestan, and Fars provinces had the highest number of imported cases from other provinces to Isfahan city. We found that 77.3% of intra-province imported cases and about 83% of inter-province cases were imported after reducing lockdown.conclusion:The incidence and fatality of COVID-19 in Isfahan province is alarming. Inter-city and inter-provincial unnecessary travels have a high impact on the transmission and spread of the COVID-19. Applying more restrictions will prevent this from happening. It is advised to restrict the inter cities travels again by policy makers for the benefit of public health.