This study investigates the relationship between atmospheric pollution and the spatial distribution of COVID‑19 cases and mortality across Bulgaria using satellite‑derived and ground‑based air‑quality indicators. Satellite observations from Sentinel‑5P TROPOMI and GOME‑2 were used to derive long‑term nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and Absorbing Aerosol Index (AAI) datasets for June 2020–July 2024, complemented by PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀ measurements from national ground monitoring stations. Pollution values were aggregated and classified at the municipal level, and a composite pollution index combining AAI and NO₂ was constructed. Comparison with COVID‑19 case data reveals a clear spatial correspondence between higher pollution index values and increased COVID‑19 incidence. However, COVID‑19 mortality displays a different spatial pattern, influenced by healthcare system capacity and regional differences in access to medical services. The results highlight the role of atmospheric pollution as a contributing factor to COVID‑19 vulnerability and demonstrate the value of satellite‑based monitoring for epidemiological assessment.
Filchev et al. (Tue,) studied this question.
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