The current health crisis has no doubt brought new worries to people's minds. A lot of information circulating on social media about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can trigger anxiety and stress.

People of all ages, even children, may feel afraid or anxious about the COVID-19 pandemic. This just shows that our physical health is not the only one affected by the pandemic.

A new Public Policy Institute of California survey found that Latinos are much more anxious that they will become sick or affected financially by the COVID-19 pandemic, compared to other populations in California.

The poll showed that around 61 percent of Latino respondents were worried that they or their family members would be infected with COVID-19. Around 28 percent of Black and white Californians and around 37 percent of Asian American residents admitted experiencing the same.

Latinos in California are also more worried about being financially affected by the pandemic with 56 percent. This compared to 31 percent of Black and Asian American poll respondents, and 22 percent of white participants.

Latinos also said their lives have been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and that their mental health is suffering compared to other race groups.

However, their worries and fears may have basis. A Los Angeles County Department of Public Health report said Latino residents are most likely to become infected with the virus. Also, Latinos represent around 39 percent of California's residents, but make up 55 percent of its COVID-19 cases.

Latinos and COVID-19

A UCLA study released on Monday said Black and Latinos living in Los Angeles, including New York, are around twice as likely as white residents to die from COVID-19. The study called for more protections for essential workers and expanded economic assistance for communities with high-poverty,

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said there is growing evidence that some racial and ethnic minority groups are being hugely affected by COVID-19.

The CDC cited some factors that contribute to increased risk. These include lack of healthcare access and utilization. 

"People from some racial and ethnic minority groups are more likely to be uninsured than non-Hispanic whites," according to the CDC site.

Access to healthcare might be limited due to lack of transportation, child care, or inability to take time off work. Communication and language barriers may also be a factor, as well as cultural differences between healthcare providers and patients.

Occupation can also play a role for having an increased risk for COVID-19. Many Latinos are working as essential workers in industries like healthcare, farms, factories, grocery stores, and public transportations. These jobs make them more exposed to the virus.

Housing can play a role too, as many racial minority groups live in crowded conditions that make it challenging for them to practice social distancing. It is common for Latinos to have multigenerational members live in one household.

"They have also contributed to higher rates of some medical conditions that increase one's risk of severe illness from COVID-19," the CDC was quoted.


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