Study: COVID worse for Black Michiganders

The coronavirus has been harder on Black Michiganders than just about any other group of people. Whether it’s Black-owned businesses closing at higher rates or Black workers being unable to access support programs, Black people have been disproportionately harmed by COVID-19.

Now research shows that Black people are suffering worse health outcomes after contracting the virus as well.

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan and the state’s Department of Health and Human Services has shown disproportionate affects of the virus on the Black community when compared to white residents.

Among the findings:

• More Black people reported severe or very severe symptoms of the coronavirus
• More Black people required hospital treatment while fighting COVID-19
• More Black people reported being unable to pay their bills during the pandemic

“From health to financial security, this study shows minority populations experienced more challenges than other populations,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the state’s chief medical executive.

You can read more on Michigan Advance.