The posturing of local politics has contributed to COVID-19 deaths of African Americans

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Until there is a vaccine, COVID-19 will be with us. Why are we shocked by record numbers of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in DFW? There is no targeted COVID-19 daily testing without criteria. This is the sixth month of the pandemic and there is still limited or no contact tracing in the Black community and no CARE ACT funding going to Black media/social media or community-based agencies to provide a legitimate voice for the prevention and education of COVID-19. There is a need to have COVID-19 contact tracing in the Black community to flatten the curve. Since testing has been limited, data for Blacks could be skewed. If the flu vaccine is available at local pharmacies, please consult with a doctor about getting a flu shot.

 

Please review the total COVID-19 tests by counties and zip codes. It is very clear there has to be increased COVID-19 testing for asymptomatic or symptomatic without criteria in Black communities in DFW and Texas. See the CDC updates below on COVID-19 in Racial and Ethnic Minority Groups. Your Health is Your Wealth.

 

Dallas County Summary of Cases by Ethnic Distribution

COVID-19 Reported Cases as of June 29, 2020

 

Race/Ethnicity Patient Count % of Total
African-American* 1887 9%
Asian 467 2%
Hispanic** 11890 57%
White 1618 8%
Other*** 116 1%
Not Reported 4759 23%
Total 20737 100%

 

Race/Ethnicity as reported by individuals via data provided by DCHHS

*African American includes African American; Black; Black, Non-Hispanic

** Hispanic includes Hispanic; White, Hispanic; Black, Hispanic; Pacific-Islander, Hispanic

***Other includes Non-Hispanic; Two or more races reported; American Indian, Non-Hispanic