Trend and dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America during the first wave

Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the trend and dynamics of COVID-19 in LA. Methods: This cross-sectional study was based on data published on the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization websites. Information was collected in three periods: 05/10/2020 (Period A), 06/19/2020 (Period B), and 07/20/2020 (Period C).  Descriptive analysis was performed. Results: In Period A, the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in LA had reached 284,521. In the second period, the number of cumulated cases was 1,958,180. In Period C, a total of 4,046,179 cases of COVID-19 had been notified. The highest prevalence and detection rates of COVID-19 in LA was reported in Chile, Panama, Peru, and Brazil. The mortality rate regarding new deaths in Period A was less than 60 deaths/106 habitants in all countries. However, in the second period, Ecuador (232 deaths/106 hab) presented the highest mortality rate. In Period C, the greatest rates were reported in Peru (297 deaths/106 hab) and Chile (248 deaths/106 hab). Brazil being accountable for the highest number of deaths in LA due to COVID-19. Conclusion: The trend and dynamics of COVID-19 spread in LA reveals the heterogeneous distribution and uncontrollability of the epidemic in several countries.