A literature review on COVID-19 [coronavirus] research specific to Australia including manuscripts on policy and media releases.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION / OBJECTIVES: Comprehending the avalanche of statistical research on COVID-19 [coronavirus] is laborious. Predictions, forecasts, and diagnostic algorithms are important for planning, allocation, and meeting the needs of the increasing population disease burden. Statisticians must be aware of spreadsheets, databases, and calculation methodology to produce valid estimates. Policymakers, government officials, and planners interpret results and read reports without knowing calculation intricacies. Health care workers must be aware of scientific websites whilst they are under increasing stress due to aging populations and improved technology. It is important that context-specific information is sought, read, and understood.   METHODS: A literature review was undertaken to find context-specific statistical research information on COVID-19. The author performed a Pubmed search, a search utilising the coronavirus MeSH terms (Medical Subject Headings), adding the additional MeSH terms of Australia AND policy, and then another search with media as a text word.  RESULTS:  The Pubmed search, utilising the MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) on coronavirus, adding the MeSH terms [Australia AND Policy] resulted in 52 records being retrieved. The Australian Government Department of Health website dedicated link listing coronavirus (COVID-19) news reports, statements, and media releases included 347 departmental media retrievals. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed itself as the most critical health issue of the 21st century. It is important to understand the quality evidence-based information within the context, specific to the reason for seeking information so that well-informed decisions are made that relate to preventative actions, early detection, and treatment options.