The Hispanic population is among the most vulnerable ethnic groups because of many pre-corona virus factors such as low paying jobs, language barriers, lack of access to health care and other services, and limited access to educational opportunities.
Factors affecting lower testing numbers for Hispanics include the fear of potential repercussion and exposure to authorities. The Latino community may have little or no access to health care. Many southern Delaware Latinos have frontline essential jobs in grocery stores, waste management, cleaning and sanitation services and food processing plants. Living conditions may also increase exposure to COVID-19 among Hispanic families because many live in multi-family homes.
Nationwide, Latinos have been four times as likely as whites to be hospitalized, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Data have shown disparities in the number of hospitalizations compared with the number tested. View up-to-date information and demographics for Delaware.
Finding ways to maintain support and connection, even when physically apart, can empower and encourage individuals and communities to protect themselves, care for those who become sick, keep children healthy, and better cope with stress. Making our organizations available for questions and support is imperative for the health of our Latino community.