Part 2 Black, Latinx, and other racial and ethnic minorities

The Impact of Inequalities

Black and indigenous populations along with ethnic minorities are more vulnerable to becoming seriously ill if infected with the COVID 19 because:

Genetic differences in these populations

No, there is no evidence of genetic predisposition to serious illness due to COVID-19.

Race and ethnicity affect income, where you work, the conditions of your home and neighborhood, experiencing discrimination, and access to health care, among other factors

Yes, the higher risks disproportionately faced by racial and ethnic minorities are primarily due to social determinants of health.

People of color, including African Americans, Latinx, and Native American populations are more likely to become sick and suffer the most severe consequences of COVID-19 infections due to social inequalities that limit educational and economic opportunities and impact physical and emotional well-being.

Key determinants of the higher risks disproportionately faced by racial and ethnic minorities are detailed below.

Exposure to Infection at Work

Employment in essential industries (healthcare, warehousing, retail, meatpacking, agriculture, etc.) increases the risk of high and prolonged exposure to the COVID-19 virus.

Income and Wealth Inequality

Many workers cannot afford to leave low paying, unsafe jobs or have the option to work from home.

Barriers to Healthcare Access and Utilization

As compared to whites, members of racial and ethnic minority groups are more likely to be uninsured and face other barriers to receiving health care including transportation, being able to take time off of work, language barriers, discrimination by healthcare providers, and distrust of healthcare providers from different racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Risks at Home and in the Community

Workers infected with the COVID-19 virus may expose their families and other members of their household and their communities. Crowded housing, dense urban neighborhoods, and reliance on public transportation can increase person to person spread of the virus.

Higher Rates of Underlying Medical Conditions

Discrimination, which includes racism, can lead to chronic and toxic stress affecting physical and emotional health.

COVID-19 Cases by Ethnicity

Click here to download this CDC resource or view it below.

Learn More

CDC: Social Determinants of Health
CDC: Health Equity Considerations and Racial and Ethnic Minority Groups

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