The Differential Impacts of COVID-19 Mortality on Mental Health by Residential Geographic Regions: The Los Angeles Pandemic Surveillance Cohort Study

PONE-D-24-11827

Dear Dr. Lam,

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Reviewer #1: Yes

Reviewer #2: Yes

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2. Has the statistical analysis been performed appropriately and rigorously?

Reviewer #1: Yes

Reviewer #2: Yes

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Reviewer #1: No

Reviewer #2: Yes

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Reviewer #1: Yes

Reviewer #2: Yes

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Reviewer #1: Overall, this is a clear, and well-written manuscript. The introduction is relevant. This is an interesting study and the data are informative. There are numerous strengths to this study. The study seems well conducted. The manuscript is structured. It is appropriate in length.

Reviewer #2: The article helped in understanding the specific mental health impacts among different ethnicities within the regions of most affected by COVID-19 mortality. While the pandemic has affected the entire population in general this article can identify the vulnerable communities. Some of the limitations appear to be studies limited to specific geographical areas and screening tools of PHQ-2 versus PHQ-9which can give a better understanding of mental health impacts.

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Reviewer #1: No

Reviewer #2: Yes: Rajasekhar Kannali

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