Spatial distribution of mortality: evidence from DIMAMO HDSS, Limpopo Province, South Africa

The present study found an overall decrease in mortality rates in the area. However, there were variations among the village clusters, with some experiencing high mortality rates. Regarding age and mortality, the present study found that under-5 mortality was elevated in all clusters. Factors such as unemployment, marital status, and education level were associated with mortality. Mortality was highest in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. We recommend for the integration of spatial analysis with demographic surveillance data, and incorporation of the same into primary healthcare to provide insight for epidemiologists, the Department of Health, and policymakers to create interventions that are community-specific to reduce preventable deaths in DIMAMO HDSS.