2020 marks the beginning of a new decade. Unfortunately, this year also marks the start of a new global pandemic: Covid-19. As the whole world is battling this ongoing crisis, we are asked to stay at home in order to reduce the spread of the virus and flatten the contagion curve. As we all found ourselves in an extended state of self isolation in the past several weeks, I spent a lot of time reflecting on this new crisis and its impact on our community.
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, millions of people around the world are forced to self isolate and quarantine at home. Given these unprecedented circumstances, people are spending more time in front of screens. From watching the news every other hour to constantly scrolling through social media, it’s easy to get lost in the noise of what’s going on around us. The issue with consuming information on social media is that we involuntarily expose ourselves to false narratives and untrustworthy news. Not only does this mess with our heads, but it also negatively impacts what used to be a positive online environment. We use social media on a daily basis to engage with our family and friends. Don’t believe everything you read online, but instead, to do your research and double check any information you may find. But one thing is sure, anyone can contract the virus if health and sanitary guidelines are not respected. (The other thing for sure is that consuming disinfectants won’t work either!)
Generally, we people of color falsely perceive that we are immune to what’s going on around us. In the case of Covid-19, a lot of folks believe that it only happens to other people, until someone they know is affected. No-one is immune from this virus, and most people start to realize that after they, or someone they know, contracts the virus.
While the virus doesn’t discriminate between races, there are unfortunately bigger socio-economic issues that make us the main target for this virus.
Research data shows that African-Americans are at higher risk than any other race. This forces us to think very carefully about the impact this virus can have on ourselves, families and our community as a whole. In fact, communities of color are at an increased risk of experiencing serious illness if they become infected with Coronavirus due to higher rates of certain underlying health conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease and obesity. These risks are significantly aggravated by racial inequalities in healthcare and the workplace.
Another issue that this pandemic poses is that we need to practice social distancing. Most people who work essential jobs cannot practice social distancing due to the nature of their work, which again, increases the risks of exposure and ultimately, infection. African-Americans have a higher propensity to work in essential industries that aren’t eligible to work from home…further exacerbating the issue when coupled with underlying health problems.
Due to the severe impact Covid-19 has on our country’s economy and small businesses, more and more government leaders are pushing to loosen up their Stay at Home orders and open up local businesses. The benefit is that it generates revenue for small businesses that are fighting to survive. However, most of these businesses (nail salons, barber shops, etc.) can’t practice social distancing and service customers. Plus, individuals who work there are challenged to protect themselves — and their customers — from the virus.
No matter which situation you find yourself in, remember to take care of yourself and take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you need to go to work or re-open your business, do this out with the abundance of caution. Make sure to wear masks AND gloves. If you can’t find these supplies at your local grocery store or drugstore, buy them online. There are also many local authorities that provide Covid-19 supplies free of charge. If you are going back to work, try to get tested beforehand. For example here in Texas, the State offers free Covid-19 tests to anyone who wants to get tested. This will not only provide you with a better understanding of your health status but it will also give you and your co-workers peace of mind.
When you are home, use any spare time you have to go on walks or exercise at home. You don’t need fancy gym equipment; you just need to incorporate exercise into your schedule. Remember that taking care of yourself mentally and physically plays a big part in your overall health.
Also, keep an eye out for any symptoms you or those around you might have, and call your doctor as soon as you experience any signs of respiratory illness or Coronavirus symptoms.
I hope this article shed some light on the ongoing situation and the importance of self care, especially in our community. I hope this will raise some awareness and push you to reflect on how you can stay safe and improve your health. Now is the time for us to take action, protect ourselves and regain our health.
xoxo
