Physical Activity and the Risk of COVID-19 Infection and Mortality

Physical Activity and the Risk of COVID-19 Infection and Mortality

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Currently, there is no cure for COVID-19, except for supportive treatments. Quarantine for a defined period is the best option to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of serious community-acquired infections. However, it remains unanswered is whether physical activity has protective effects against SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 related mortality. This study aimed to examine the association of PA with the morbidity and mortality of COVID-19 infection in the entire South Korean population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• all Koreans who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2
• more than 18 years old
• who underwent public health screening between 2014 and 2017

Exclusion Criteria:

• missing values about physical activity