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NEW YORK, NY – Despite entering Phase 1 of reopening, minority communities in several New York City neighborhoods are still experiencing extremely high rates of infection from the coronavirus.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said Monday that infection rates from COVID-19 are disproportionately high in specific neighborhoods when compared to the citywide average. NBC 4 reports that while the New York City infection rate is approximately 19.9%, hotspot neighborhoods have infection rates as high as 51%.
Cuomo explained that the neighborhoods with the highest infection rates are located in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens. The governor identified 10 neighborhoods where the government will focus their Coronavirus aid and support. Some of the hotspot neighborhoods include Bathgate in the Bronx, Flatbush in Brooklyn, and Queens Village in Queens.
The high infection rates in these neighborhoods indicate that minority communities are still bearing the brunt of the Coronavirus pandemic. Minority communities in New York City and in America at large tend to have a higher rate of comorbidities that increase the risk of infection. Additional factors—such as low income and reduced healthcare access—also play a significant role in the COVID-19 infection rate.
Governor Cuomo plans to increase COVID-19 testing, treatment, and awareness to reduce the infection rate in these high-risk neighborhoods. As a part of this plan, the government of New York will create 14 new COVID-19 testing sites, with the help of Northwell Health SOMOS Community Care.
On Tuesday, actor Sean Penn’s CORE foundation also pledged to create 11 additional testing centers to support the New York City neighborhoods most in need of assistance.
If you or a loved one has contracted COVID-19 in New York City, the attorneys at Finz & Finz, P.C. want to hear from you. Contact our office today to discuss your case.
