The Relationship Between COVID-19 and Urban Features in the Light of Recent Quantitative Studies

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has profoundly impacted urban environments globally. The virus's dependence on physical proximity for transmission and the necessity for individuals to congregate in urban spaces to meet various needs accelerated its spread. Therefore, as with many other epidemic diseases, investigating the urban factors behind contact and spread has become an important issue for the COVID-19 pandemic as well. This study investigates the relationship between COVID-19 and various urban features by synthesizing recent quantitative research. The review revealed that it is possible to conceptualise urban factors which are influencing COVID-19 spread as sociodemographic characteristics, healthcare services, infrastructure, tourism activities, economic activities, and urban conditions. Understanding these urban determinants is essential for developing targeted strategies to control the spread of COVID-19 and enhance urban resilience against future pandemics. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.