LONDON (UK) – Some ethnic minority groups in Britain have had relatively less impact from the second wave of COVID-19 cases than they were in the first, a government report regarding the disparities over the impact of the pandemic on minorities said on Friday.
The quarterly report has previously found that the risk to ethnic minorities from COVID-19, which appeared to be on a surge, is largely due to factors such as living circumstances and profession.
Disparities have shown improvements for some ethnic groups including Black Africans, Black Caribbean, Chinese and Indians, as per the latest report, pointing out that ethnicity or genetics cannot be looked upon as risk factors, which are inherent.
Minister for Equalities Kemi Badenoch, said, “The latest data shows that this is not a one-size-fits-all situation. Outcomes have improved for some ethnic minority groups since the first wave, but we know some communities are still particularly vulnerable.”
The report found that there remained a higher risk of infection for Pakistanis and Bangladeshis after adjustment for other factors, adding that the reasons for this were not yet clear.
Although some disparities continue to exist, the government highlighted the work is in progress to tackle the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 with regard to Black and ethnic minority groups, which includes working with broadcasters in a variety of languages. It will aim for funding advocates on grassroots level to promote awareness.
Evidence has been found that vaccine hesitancy is higher in ethnic minority groups.
The government said that only 49% of Black or Black British adults reported that they were likely to take the vaccine and cited data showing approximately 60% of Black people over 70 had been inoculated compared to 75% of South Asians and 90% of white people.
Badenoch said, “There is light at the end of the tunnel, and as the vaccine rollout continues, I urge everyone who is offered one to take the opportunity, to protect themselves, their family, and their community.”