COVID-19 Impacting Non-white, Uninsured MoCo Residents the Most

COVID-19 impacting non-white, uninsured MoCo residents the most.

In July, the Washington Post reported that in Montgomery County, Hispanic residents — who make up about a fifth of the County’s population — accounted for 74 percent of recent COVID-19 cases.

The coronavirus pandemic is disproportionately affecting nonwhite and vulnerable communities in Montgomery County and nationwide. ZIP codes that have higher rates of nonwhite and uninsured residents tend to have a higher prevalence of COVID-19 cases. There is also a statistically significant link between COVID deaths and race.

 

According to Census and state data, White Oak ZIP code 20904, which is 73 percent nonwhite and 13 percent uninsured, has nearly 2,500 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 residents, and 127 deaths per 100,000 residents. Northern Potomac ZIP code 20878, which is 45 percent nonwhite and 6 percent uninsured, has 951 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 residents, and 23 deaths per 100,000 residents.

These findings follow nationwide trends. Nation-wide research from the Centers for Disease Control shows that Black Americans, who make up about 14 percent of the national population, are dying from COVID-19 at 2.1 times the rate of non-Hispanic white Americans. Hispanic/Latino Americans, who make up about 18 percent of the population, are dying at 1.1 times the rate.

Numerous factors contribute to why nonwhite and uninsured people are more at risk for contracting and dying from coronavirus. According to the CDC, people of color are more likely to be uninsured compared to non-Hispanic white people. Limited healthcare access among minority groups could be attributed to causes such as lack of transportation or childcare, cultural or language barriers, or immigration status.

People of color are also more likely to have preexisting conditions, which could increase their risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms. For example, the CDC estimates that about 12.5 percent of Hispanic Americans have diagnosed diabetes, compared to 7.5 percent of non-Hispanic whites. Some minority communities also live in densely populated housing, where social distancing is not possible.

In addition to varying healthcare access and living conditions, many working-age non-white and uninsured people are part of the essential workforce, which puts them at greater risk of exposure to the disease. According to a 2018 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Hispanic/Latino Americans account for almost half of all workers in construction, agriculture, and housekeeping occupations. Black Americans account for 36 percent of nursing, psychiatric, and home health aides. The Center for Economic and Policy Research also reports that 11 percent of frontline workers are uninsured.

The map shows the number of COVID-19 cases by ZIP code in Montgomery County, controlling for density. More cases are seen in Rockville, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, and Takoma Park.

By Nyrene Monforte and Prayag Gordy

Recent Stories

Three Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Police Officers were honored during today’s Oriole’s home opener for their bravery during the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Per the news release:

A search is currently underway for a coyote after two women were attacked on Thursday, March 28 in Montgomery County.  

The Montgomery County Board of Education has launched a nationwide search for the next superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), who will assume the role on July 1, 2024….

Detectives from the Montgomery County Department of Police – 5th District Investigative Section are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Jay Turner, a missing 43-year-old.

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

Bethesda Film Fest

The 2024 Bethesda Film Fest will feature five short documentary films made by filmmakers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Screenings will be held Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6 at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.

×

Subscribe to our mailing list