Janet, 55, living with diabetes.
Earl, 55, living with asthma.
Actor portrayals.
This is how we do it
Now that we understand the impact of COVID-19 on our community, we’re ready to put these insights into practice. This content was created for us and by us, so use it to equip yourself and your loved ones with valuable information to stay healthy.
Janet, 55, living with diabetes.
Earl, 55, living with asthma.
Actor portrayals.
your health and wellness
Mind. Body.
Soul(Food).
Let’s expand our definition of health and treat it like the precious asset it is by taking measures now to improve future health outcomes. Incorporating activities like brisk walks, mindful eating habits, and positive affirmations may help support a sense of well-being for the mind, body, and soul.
Mental Health
Physical Health
Dietary Health
When our people unite,
nothing can stop us. Let’s take action against Covid-19 for
a healthier tomorrow.
caring for elders
Older. Wiser.
Safer.
Elders—especially those from our community—are more likely to develop severe COVID-19 symptoms.3 If you care for an elder, be sure to take care of yourself so you can take care of them. After all, in many cases younger family members are their trusted resource for health information. Encourage them to speak to a doctor if they have COVID-19 symptoms, and take extra precautions, like getting tested or regular handwashing, before family visits and opt for video calls when people are feeling ill.4
Mildred, 68, living with asthma.
Actor portrayals.
Joyce, 50, living with high blood pressure.
Actor portrayals.
caring for others
All in the family
If your family relies on you for care, have a strategy in place to minimize disruption to your family’s routine. If you fall ill with COVID‑19, talk to your doctor about minimizing the risk of severe illness and oral treatment options for COVID-19.5 Mothers who are breastfeeding should talk to their doctor.
Though most children experience asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 illness, some are at risk of developing severe illness.6 Speak with a pediatrician to discuss risk factors, identify symptoms, and develop a plan to help your child recover after COVID-19 infection.
RESOURCES
WHEN WE GATHER, WE LISTEN.
Talking about our collective health as Black Americans can be empowering. Conversations and empathy can feel more authentic because our feelings and struggles are understood without explanation. One way to make informed decisions about our health is by identifying trusted voices from our community. Consider the following resources:
Faith-based Organizations
The Black Church has a proud history of organizing to defend and protect the interests of our community. Take some time to meet with local faith leaders to discuss community health and COVID-19, and identify any partnerships they may have with local health centers and clinics.
Community-Serving Organizations
Whether they be organizations that focus on civil rights, academic success, housing, or economic empowerment, many exist to address unique issues—like COVID-19—that affect Black Americans. Start researching at the local level, as their resources may be more accessible and their impact more strongly felt.
Local Clinics
Local clinics can be more in tune to the needs of their neighboring communities. Not only can they provide healthcare and COVID-19 reduction strategies customized to your area, many have mailing lists that provide the most up-to-date community health information and announcements for local health events. Get in touch with your local clinics to stay informed.
Local Health Fairs
Health fairs are a valuable resource for our community. They often provide free health screenings, educational workshops, and opportunities to speak with medical experts that can answer questions specific to the Black community. Identify the next local health fair through community organizations and make sure to mark your calendar for the next one!
Left: Mildred, 68, living with asthma.
Middle: Alberta, 75, living with diabetes.
Right: Joyce, 50, living with high blood pressure.
Actor portrayals.
COVID-19 and the Black community
It takes a village
One person’s attitude toward COVID-19 can inspire another. We’re smarter when we verify information we get. We’re quicker when we know what makes us at-risk. And we’re stronger when we take care of our health.
That’s why it’s important to work closely with your doctor to develop a COVID-19 plan tailored specifically to your needs.
Spread the wisdom. Download the brochure and talk to your doctor about oral treatment options today.
References: 1. Physical activity basics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed September 20, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/adults.html 2. Asfaw A. Racial disparity in potential occupational exposure to COVID-19. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities. 2022;9(5):1726-1739. doi:10.1007/s40615-021-01110-8 3. People with certain medical conditions and COVID-19 risk factors. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed September 20, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/risk-factors/index.html 4. Direct service providers for children and families: information for home visitors. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed September 20, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/humandevelopment/covid-19/guidance-for-home-visitors.html 5. If you get sick with COVID-19, antiviral treatments can protect you against severe illness. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published December 21, 2023. Accessed September 20, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/ncird/whats-new/antiviral-treatments.html 6. Information for pediatric healthcare providers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed September 20, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/hcp/clinical-care/for-pediatric-hcp.html