COVID-19 Contagion among Communities with Limited English Proficiency: Lesson from Volunteerism

Authors

Falah N. Rashoka M.S, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2021

Citation

Rashoka, F. N. COVID-19 contagion among communities with limited english proficiency: Lesson from volunteerism. Harvard Public Health Review. 2021;27. https://harvardpublichealthreview.org/2021/06/05/27-article-rashoka/

Comments

© 2021 HARVARD PUBLIC HEALTH REVIEW: A PEER-REVIEWED JOURNAL

Abstract

The COVID-19 affects all communities in the United States, but its impact differs from one community to another. Undoubtedly, the vulnerable populations are more impacted than others, especially refugees and immigrants. This study seeks to understand the impact of COVID-19 on marginalized communities and the need to communicate health-related information equally. A lesson learned from observation during an ongoing pandemic, including what I learned through my volunteer work between mid-March and August 2020. The study finds that neighbors with limited English Proficiency (LEP) and limited education could quickly transfer the COVID-19 virus to another neighbor with high income and well-educated. Disparities in access to care and underlying causes among LEP communities may lead to spreading the virus. Making health information available in different languages and more TV channels and radios that disseminate COVID-19 information in multiple languages is essential. It is imperative for public health during the resiliency process to thoroughly prepare and consider vulnerable communities’ health and need to legislate proper health communication and education for all for any possible pandemic in the future.