COVID-19 Is Infecting and Killing Black Americans at Alarming Rates in Some States

COVID-19 Is Infecting and Killing Black Americans at Alarming Rates in Some States

COVID-19 Is Infecting and Killing Black Americans at Alarming Rates in Some States New data from a number of big cities and states is shedding light on current inequalities in health care.

In Illinois, North and South Carolina, Connecticut, Las Vegas and Minnesota, black Americans have been infected disproportionately to their population percentage.

The number of deaths among African Americans due to COVID-19 has been described as devastating.

While the information is preliminary, it is alarming and significant enough that some lawmakers have declared the crisis a "call-to-action moment for all of us." Lori Lightfoot, Chicago Mayor, via 'NYT' Health experts say the reasons have to do with systemic inequalities related in part to the percentage of black Americans who cannot work from home.

Existing health conditions, the necessity of public transit and lack of insurance are also likely contributors.

Initial data also points to doctors being less likely to refer black Americans for testing.

Dr. Mandy Cohen, NC, via 'The New York Times'