SARS-CoV-2 is the name of the new coronavirus discovered in late 2019.
Is the virus that causes the disease called COVID-19, short for “Coronavirus Disease of 2019.”
In most people, the virus mainly affects the respiratory tract, but we are still learning about all of the ways it impacts the human body.
People can carry this virus and transmit it to others, even when they do not have any symptoms themselves.
Some people do not show any symptoms (“asymptomatic”). Some people have a mild to moderate infection and can recover at home. Other people may have a more severe illness and need to be treated in the hospital.
Other Social and structural factors impacting COVID Risk
People of color are overrepresented in essential service industries with increased exposure
Low-wage jobs often do not provide: Health Insurance Paid sick leave Childcare Options to work from home Other benefits (e.g., retirement savings)
Residential Segregation People of color are more likely to live in residentially segregated settings with high housing density Poor access to healthy foods More multigenerational households with limited space
Increased levels of Chronic Stress Resulting from structural racism, increased incidence of violence, everyday aggression, and trauma