From Crisis to Strategy: Mapping Global Efforts, Predicting Futures and Strengthening Pandemic Defenses.

This study encapsulates not just the collective resolve but presents a compelling narrative of countries' efforts to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Spanning from January 2020 to May 2022, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of countries' responses, including a critical examination of the vaccination period. The study introduces a predictive model using linear regression to project future confirmed cases and deaths, providing countries invaluable insights for navigating potential pandemics. The research employs Stepwise Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and the Malmquist Index (MI) to unveil efficiency trends in each country's battle against COVID-19 spread. The analysis unfolds in two dimensions: Assessing the efficiency of 29 countries, including those in the Middle East, in reducing the COVID-19 spread rate, and evaluating their efficiency in curbing the mortality rate. Pearson and Spearman Correlation tests shed light on nuanced relationships within the model. The results underscore the critical impact of variables on confirmed cases and deaths, revealing the pivotal role of country-specific characteristics such as the population, population density, and proportion of individuals aged over 65. This study not only contributes to our understanding but offers a strategic roadmap for countries to strengthen their defenses against future pandemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]