Vulnerability Index and Spatial Trajectories of COVID-19 in the Metropolitan District of Quito

Abstract

This work analyzes the spatial trajectory of COVID-19 infections in the Metropolitan District of Quito (DMQ) during the period defined as social isolation (the period of social confinement called “red traffic light” took place in Quito from April 9 as of June 3, 2020). The main objective is to identify the main trends in the spread of contagion and correlate them with the dimensions of urban life. The research analyses the contagions in the functional urban area of ​​Quito, that is, the consolidated urban nucleus and the conurbed rural parishes with which there is continuity in the provision of amanzanamiento. The research develops a vulnerability index based on demographic, socioeconomic and habitat dimensions, to correlate the most vulnerable parishes with the evolution of COVID-19 infections. Therefore, it is an exploratory study that, with empirical evidence made available by official organizations, shows the socio-spatial patterns of the pandemic and its correlation with the degrees of vulnerability in a specific place. Finally, based on the results obtained, a discussion is proposed for the formulation of policies that mitigate the social impact of COVID-19.