Examining the Effects of the COVID-19 Epidemic Shocks on Life Expectancy in Selected African Countries: A Tripartite Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60787/tnhj.v24i3.878Keywords:
Covid-19 pandemic, life expectancy, tripartite analysis, AfricaAbstract
Background: The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in substantial loss of life and livelihood insecurity worldwide. It has shortened life spans, deteriorated living conditions, and impeded national economic development, particularly affecting supply chains of essential goods and services in Nigeria, Egypt, and Algeria.
Objective: This study investigates the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on life expectancy in Nigeria, Egypt, and Algeria by exploring the effects of various pandemic-related indices.
Methods: The study employed a GARCH (1,1) model to analyze the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on life expectancy. The data set consisted of daily Covid-19 indices, including the Covid Index (CIX), Medical Index (MIX), Vaccine Index (VIX), and Uncertainty Index (UIX), spanning from 31 December 2019 to 28 April 2021. Life expectancy (LEX) was measured using life expectancy as a percentage of the total population. Control variables included government health expenditure (GEXH) as a percentage of GDP and per capita income (PCI).
Results: The findings indicate that the Covid-19 pandemic had significant adverse effects on life expectancy in Nigeria, Egypt, and Algeria. The pandemic's negative impact on life expectancy was robust across all indices, underscoring the detrimental effects of the crisis on public health in these countries.
Conclusion: The Covid-19 pandemic has posed a serious threat to life expectancy in Nigeria, Egypt, and Algeria, highlighting the need for policies aimed at improving living standards and extending life expectancy. Governments should prioritize enhancing public health infrastructure and living conditions to mitigate future health crises' long-term impacts.
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