Racial disparities showing up in coronavirus pandemic

The state Department of Health has just released preliminary figures on the racial background of people testing positive for the coronavirus.

The numbers show a disproportionate impact on minority populations across Washington.

Doctors are beginning to sound the alarm.

The facts are sobering. Those who are overweight or have high blood pressure or diabetes are more likely to contract and succumb to the coronavirus.

Sadly, that description fits a lot of people of color in this racialized society.

James Scott sat in Westlake Park, keeping a physical distance from others just as the governor ordered. His “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” edict is still considered the best weapon in the fight against COVID-19.

“I wear my mask, as you can see,” said Scott. “And my gloves. I don’t get with a crowd. I never get with a crowd. I always be singled out. I’m a single all the time.”

That may help keep him healthy during this pandemic.

Statistics are showing that African Americans, Latinos and Asian-Pacific Islanders in King County are at greater risk of contracting and dying from the coronavirus.

Dr. Rachel Bender Ignacio says COVID-19 is not discriminating based on race. But racial inequities, including access to health care, are playing a major role in people of color being disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus.

“My message to people right now is that even though King County seems to be cresting or have crested at the top of our epidemic, this is not the time to relax our vigilance,” said Bender Ignacio. “This is not the time to start getting together in groups. We’re not out of the woods yet.”

She says that will help more people, no matter their race, make it out of this pandemic alive.

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