New data from San Diego County Health and Human Services shows a disproportionate number of Latinos have contracted a died from the virus in the County.
The agency revealed on Thursday that about 67% of the county's almost 9,900 COVID-19 cases (where race and ethnicity is confirmed) are Hispanic or Latino individuals. This number is significant when you consider that the Hispanic/Latino population in San Diego is 34%.
Of the county's 327 COVID-19 deaths, 139 people (about 43%) were Latinos.
“There are multiple reasons why the virus is having a more severe impact in the Latino community,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. She shared the following reasons:
- Are more likely to be essential or frontline workers
- Have more underlying medical conditions
- Live in multi-generational and more crowded households
- Often show more physical affection
Dr. Wooten also urged residents to cooperate with county investigators and contract tracers, “When an investigator and contact tracer calls you, it is important that you answer because immediate action is needed,” Wooten said. “What you say is kept confidential and we will not question your address.”
Earlier this week the county provided information about expanded COVID-19 testing facilities and gave more information about procedures.
People with symptoms who want to get a COVID-19 test should call their healthcare provider to get one. People without symptoms can now get a COVID-19 test. Here’s where:
- Call your healthcare provider and ask them for one. Tests are covered by insurance.
- People without insurance can makean appointment online and get a free test at a County and State site. Thesite is also in Spanish.
- Call 2-1-1 and ask to speak with a public health nurse.
- No appointment testing is available at the County drive-up site at South Bay Urgent Care at 1628 Palm Avenue in Imperial Beach. Hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Free tests are limited.
“People who wish to get a test should contact their doctor to get one or make at an appointment at a state or County site,” Wooten said. “We need to make sure people get tested to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
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