Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound global socio-economic impact. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the nature and severity of burn injuries before and during the pandemic era.

Objective
The aim of this study was to determine the differences in burn injuries witnessed before and during the COVID-19 pandemic period.

Design
This was a descriptive retrospective study covering the period between 12th March 2018 and 12th March 2021. The study encompassed both the pre-COVID-19 era and the pandemic era. Data from all burn units and wards spanning three years was retrieved, cross-checked, and only complete and accurate records were included. Analysis was carried out using the chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test, with the level of significance set at p = 0.05.

Results
There was a general increase in the number of patients sustaining thermal and electrical burns during the COVID-19 pandemic period. More males sustained burn injuries in this period, accounting for 56.6% of all cases compared to 43.4% among females, a difference that was statistically significant (p < 0.005).

Conclusion
This study demonstrated a significant increase in thermal and electrical burns during the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting individuals across all age groups, particularly preschool children. The increase is likely explained by factors associated with pandemic restrictions, including forced lockdowns and children being left unattended or under insufficient supervision.