Although Hard Hit by COVID-19, Hispanic People Have Low Rates of Vaccination

The global pandemic has severely impacted minority populations in the United States, and Hispanic populations have been among some of the hardest hit. COVID-19 illness has disproportionately impacted Hispanic people in addition to the significant economic effects experienced by most minority groups. However, recent data on vaccination rates demonstrate that white Americans are three times more likely to have received their first COVID-19 vaccination than Hispanic Americans. Barriers to accessing the vaccinations may impede Hispanic people from being inoculated. While the vaccine is free, some healthcare providers may ask for insurance information, which may discourage those without insurance from seeking the vaccinations. Public health officials are working on education materials to get the word out to Hispanic populations that the COVID-19 vaccines are available at no charge and that legal immigration status is not required to receive the vaccines. Click here to read more.