When COVID-19 is layered on top of the severe health disparities already impacting Hispanic populations , the risk of exposure and severe illness resulting from COVID-19 increase substantially .
The CDC explains it clearly —“ Long-standing systemic health and social inequities have put many people from racial and ethnic minority groups at increased risk of getting sick and dying from COVID-19 … Racial and ethnic minority groups are experiencing higher rates of COVID-19 infection , hospitalization , and death . Inequities in the social determinants of health have historically prevented these groups from having the same opportunities for economic , physical , and emotional health . These inequities are highlighted by the factors that contribute to increased risk of COVID-19 exposure , severe illness from COVID-19 , death , and unintended consequences of COVID-19 mitigation strategies ” ( CDC , 2020 ).
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