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COVID-19 Lockdown and Neonatal Mortality: Evidence from India

Author

Listed:
  • Abu S. Shonchoy

    (Department of Economics, Florida International University)

  • Shatakshee Dhongde

    (Department of Economics, Georgia Institute of Technology)

  • Erdal Asker

    (Department of Economics, Georgia Institute of Technology)

Abstract

Using nationally representative data from India, we document the first survey-based evidence of the unintended consequences of lockdown on neonatal mortality in a developing country. Event-study shows neonatal mortality significantly increased during the first nationwide lockdown and became insignificant one-month later. The difference-in-difference estimates show neonatal mortality increased to 47 from 30 per 1,000 births during the lockdown. Negative in-utero exposure, forgone healthcare (through service interruption and avoidance), and delaying vaccinations are crucial impact mechanisms. Our findings stimulate the debate on the efficacy of strict lockdown, its duration, and missing policy directives in resource-poor countries, particularly for the care-dependent population.

Suggested Citation

  • Abu S. Shonchoy & Shatakshee Dhongde & Erdal Asker, 2023. "COVID-19 Lockdown and Neonatal Mortality: Evidence from India," Working Papers 2303, Florida International University, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:fiu:wpaper:2303
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    File URL: https://economics.fiu.edu/research/pdfs/2023_working_papers/2303.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    COVID-19; India; Neonatal and nfant mortality; Lockdown; In-utero exposure; Child vaccinations; Antenatal care visits;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth

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