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Martin MC, Perez Orozco J, Tovar-Aguilar JA, Morera MC, Gusto C, Forst LS, Monaghan P. Social Vulnerabilities Among Hired Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers During COVID-19: The Need for Employment-Based Indicators. J Agromedicine 2024:1-11. [PMID: 39138587 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2024.2388869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore farmworkers' experiences of social vulnerability during the peak period of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Telephone surveys of 63 migrant and seasonal farmworkers across three major agricultural areas in Florida were conducted. The survey, designed and disseminated with critical support from a statewide farmworker membership and advocacy organization, included items related to social and occupational precarity and a suite of demographic conditions, including specific employment-based indicators and categories. Data were analyzed with SPSS using a series of statistical significance tests including Pearson's Chi-Square, Fisher's Exact, T-tests, and Mann-Whitney U. An open-ended question regarding employment precarity was also analyzed for frequencies of responses pertaining to a set of descriptive categories. RESULTS Survey findings demonstrated a high degree of social vulnerability among the farmworker sample, with notable variation in the type and severity of vulnerability and risk exposure across employment-based indicators and occupational categories. For example, a cross-industry comparison between vegetable field workers and greenhouse nursery workers revealed a disparity in COVID-exposure risk through commuting characteristics, as 43% of vegetable field workers used shared, employer-provided transport, while 68% of nursery workers used personal vehicles. CONCLUSION While previous research has broadly established the extreme precarity of migrant and seasonal farmworkers during the peak COVID-19 period, the variability of experience, exposure to risk, and social vulnerability between farmworkers representing distinct employment-based indicators and occupational categories demonstrated in this study contributes to widening awareness of the importance of assessing farmworker experiences at a more granular level. In addition to delineating social vulnerability across key demographic categories, cross-industry comparisons between farmworkers revealed significant discrepancies in risk and vulnerability to COVID-19. Future research that further explores this variability may reveal opportunities to improve disaster-relief planning and mitigate social vulnerability in future disaster scenarios. The importance of surveying the vulnerability of worker populations, aside from geographic communities, is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Cody Gusto
- University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Linda S Forst
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
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Jason K, Wilson M, Catoe J, Brown C, Gonzalez M. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Black and Hispanic Americans' Work Outcomes: a Scoping Review. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:1157-1172. [PMID: 37117935 PMCID: PMC10147367 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01594-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
In early 2020, it was hypothesized that COVID-19 would lead to disproportionately negative health and work outcomes for Black and Hispanic adults, but sufficient data had yet been collected to fully support this claim. Now, we have empirical evidence, but little has been done to aggregate this information to fully understand its impact on these communities. Utilizing 44 articles from a scoping review of three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Business Source Complete), this study seeks to identify the primary work-related risks that help explain Black and Hispanic adults' disparate COVID-19-related work outcomes (e.g., loss of hours, job disruption, stress). Findings illuminate four primary risks faced by Black and Hispanic workers: (1) being an essential worker, (2) type of work performed, (3) workplace factors; and (4) community and geographic factors. We conclude with policy recommendations that will help inform policy and practice for economic recovery from the pandemic for other marginalized populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra Jason
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA.
| | - Miguel Wilson
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jamel Catoe
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Courtney Brown
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mayleen Gonzalez
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
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3
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Lara-Cinisomo S, Mendy ME, Non AL, Avalos J, Marquez J, D'Anna-Hernandez K. Solutions From Mexican-Descent Perinatal Women To Pandemic-Related Food, Mental Health, And Health And Safety Stressors. Health Aff (Millwood) 2024; 43:573-581. [PMID: 38560793 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2023.01492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Latina women in the US were disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic because of structural racism, including discrimination, reduced care access, and elevated risk for illness and death. Although several US policies were implemented to offset the economic toll of the pandemic, few addressed complex stressors, particularly those among Mexican-descent mothers. This qualitative study with thirty-eight perinatal women and mothers of young children who were of Mexican descent sought to identify pandemic-related stressors and solicit recommendations for addressing them during future large-scale crises. Identified stressors included food access issues, mental health needs, and health and safety concerns. The women's recommendations revealed feasible and actionable strategies, including increased access to behavioral and health care services and accessible information about food-related resources. The findings highlight the critical need for responsive policies and programs to ensure the well-being of Mexican-descent perinatal women and mothers of young children during large-scale crises.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amy L Non
- Amy L. Non, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jessica Avalos
- Jessica Avalos, Dermatology Associates, Tinely Park, Illinois
| | - Jacqueline Marquez
- Jacqueline Marquez, Eden's Orthopaedic Center Ltd., Lincolnwood, Illinois
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4
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Molina-Rogers N, Kam JA, Cornejo M, Mendez Murillo R. Using the Structural Influence Model to Explore U.S. Latina/O/X/E Undocumented Immigrants' COVID-19 Information Acquisition, Perceptions, and Prevention Behaviors. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38314754 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2024.2309808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
In the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. undocumented immigrants were at heightened risk of contracting COVID-19, with many of them being "frontline essential workers" and residing in crowded living spaces. Given undocumented immigrants' elevated susceptibility to contracting COVID-19 at the peak of uncertainty surrounding the virus, we used the structural influence model of communication to explore: (1) how undocumented immigrants acquired information about COVID-19; (2) how they assessed information trustworthiness and accuracy; (3) their perceptions of COVID-19; and (4) how they prevented or managed COVID-19. Drawing from semi-structured interviews with 46 Latina/o/x/e undocumented immigrants residing in California, we found four key themes: (1) (dis)trust in traditional media as participants relied heavily on social media for COVID-19 information; (2) weak and strong ties played a crucial role in co-constructing health outcomes with different levels of organization; (3) learning about COVID-19 through (in)direct experiences; and (4) coping through health literacy and cultural beliefs. The study's findings can inform future efforts to reach highly-vulnerable immigrant communities during a crisis (or different outbreaks in COVID-19 variants), and hopefully, help reduce health inequities.
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5
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Rosado JI, Costero JM, Wang Y. COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake and Hesitancy in a Latino Agricultural Community. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2023; 50:815-821. [PMID: 37118930 PMCID: PMC10149520 DOI: 10.1177/10901981231167893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine hesitancy is believed to be among the top global health threats. U.S. Latinos have disproportionately been affected by the pandemic and have higher COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. This study applied the Vaccine Hesitancy Determinants Matrix to understand COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in a Latino agricultural community. Surveys were conducted with 180 adults from a Migrant Community Health Center to measure pandemic experiences and hesitancy factors across three categories: individual and group factors, vaccine/vaccination-specific factors, and contextual factors. Approximately 16% of participants reported having tested positive for COVID-19, 90% endorsed loss of income, and 47% reported their mental health was affected. Only 46% received a COVID-19 vaccine. Common individual vaccine hesitancy factors included worry about side effects, worry that vaccines cause infection, and concern that side effects would be worse than the virus. Vaccine/vaccination-specific factors included concern about how quickly COVID-19 vaccines were developed and concern about there being insufficient research on their effectiveness, potential risks, and side effects. Common contextual factors included religious beliefs and political mistrust. Logistic regression results indicated that subjects who tested positive for COVID-19, or had a coworker who tested positive were more likely to get vaccinated. The odds ratio of being vaccinated increased with age. Subjects who endorsed concern that vaccine side effects were worse than the virus were less likely to be vaccinated. Results highlight that there are health literacy gaps among Latino communities such as interpretation of vaccine efficacy and safety to gain a more accurate understanding of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yuxia Wang
- Florida State University, Immokalee,
FL, USA
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6
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Findling MG, Caporello HL, Stein RI, Wade CG, Lubell KM, Briseño L, SteelFisher GK. Communications for US Populations With Limited English Proficiency During Infectious Disease Outbreaks: A Scoping Review. Health Secur 2023; 21:489-499. [PMID: 37889614 PMCID: PMC11301523 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2023.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for research about communicating with populations who have limited English proficiency in the United States during infectious disease outbreaks. These populations have experienced significantly worse health outcomes during emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and evidence-based risk communications are critical to protecting their health. To support improved development of emergency communications for these communities, we conducted a scoping review that examined the extent of research available, with an intent to identify which communications topics are covered in the literature and where research gaps exist. Following the JBI framework, with reporting guided by the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews, 6 electronic databases were systematically searched in October 2022. The inclusion criteria for articles selected were: data collected between 2009 and 2022, published in English, and focused on communications pertaining to emergency infectious disease outbreaks (eg, H1N1 influenza, Zika virus, COVID-19) for populations with limited English proficiency. Of 2,049 articles identified through the search, 31 met the inclusion criteria and were selected for review. We identified major limitations in the evidence base: a majority of studies were conducted only among Spanish speakers or during the COVID-19 pandemic, and most used qualitative or nonrandom samples. Most studies documented basic language barriers in communications, but there was little exploration of more nuanced barriers, such as cultural relevance or social context. Ahead of future outbreaks, more research is urgently needed to examine the information landscapes of populations with limited English proficiency, to inform the development of more effective communications strategies from public health institutions and others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary G Findling
- Mary G. Findling, PhD, ScM, is Assistant Director, in the Harvard Opinion Research Program, Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Hannah L Caporello
- Hannah L. Caporello is Senior Research Projects Manager, in the Harvard Opinion Research Program, Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Rebekah I Stein
- Rebekah I. Stein is a Research Assistant, in the Harvard Opinion Research Program, Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Carrie G Wade
- Carrie G. Wade, MLIS, is a Research and Instruction Librarian, Countway Library of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Keri M Lubell
- Keri M. Lubell, PhD, is a Behavioral Scientist, at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Lisa Briseño
- Lisa Briseño, MS, is a Senior Health Communication Specialist, at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Gillian K SteelFisher
- Gillian K. SteelFisher, PhD, MSc, is Principal Research Scientist and Director of Global Polling, in the Harvard Opinion Research Program, Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
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Singer E, Molyneux K, Gogerly-Moragoda M, Kee D, Baranowski KA. The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on health experiences of asylum seekers to the United States. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1376. [PMID: 37464269 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16313-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated preexisting barriers to accessing healthcare and social services faced by asylum seekers to the United States. This study aimed to uncover the impact of the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic on asylum seekers, including socio-economic stressors and access to medical information, healthcare, and testing. METHOD We conducted 15 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with adult asylum seekers to the U.S. and systematically analyzed the resulting transcripts using a consensual qualitative research approach. RESULTS The transcripts yielded six domains: (1) knowledge and understanding of COVID-19; (2) attitudes and practices relating to COVID-19 precautions; (3) experience of COVID-19 symptoms; (4) current physical and mental health; (5) access to and interaction with health care; (6) discrimination based on asylum status. CONCLUSIONS Although participants had knowledge about COVID-19's communicability and regularly used masks, their living conditions frequently hindered their ability to quarantine and isolate, and their lack of insurance was often a deterrent to them seeking medical care. Notably, immigration status was not a significant factor discouraging participants from seeking care during the pandemic. The findings build on existing knowledge about this community and may help define areas where support and services can be expanded in current and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Singer
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Medical Education, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1111 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY, 10025, USA.
| | - Kevin Molyneux
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | | | - Dustin Kee
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Kim A Baranowski
- Department of Medical Education, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
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Thomas KJA. Health behaviours and COVID-19 prevention among immigrants in the United States. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2023; 45:837-854. [PMID: 36693012 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic has had negative implications for the welfare of immigrant communities. However, few studies have examined the behavioural responses used by immigrants to respond to the spread of the virus. This study uses data from the U.S.-based COVID-19 in American Communities study to examine whether there are disparities in the use of COVID-19 prevention behaviours between first-generation immigrants (i.e., foreign-born persons), second-generation immigrants (i.e., U.S.-born persons with at least one immigrant parent), and third-generation individuals (i.e., U.S.-born persons with only U.S.-born parents). The results indicate that recent first-generation immigrants and second-generation immigrants use the behaviours recommended to prevent the spread of COVID-19 less intensively compared to third-generation individuals. Furthermore, increased exposure to U.S. society is found to have a non-linear relationship with the intense use of these behaviours. Results from the analysis of each preventive behaviour show that there are larger gaps between immigrants and U.S. natives in the use of frequent hand washing and comparatively smaller gaps in the practice of avoiding large crowds. However, the most consistent pattern of low use of COVID-19 prevention behaviours was found among recently arrived first-generation immigrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J A Thomas
- Department of African and African Diaspora and Sociology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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Xu F, Crush J, Zhong T. Pathways to food insecurity: Migration, hukou and COVID-19 in Nanjing, China. POPULATION, SPACE AND PLACE 2023; 29:e2640. [PMID: 36721421 PMCID: PMC9880715 DOI: 10.1002/psp.2640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has issued significant challenges to food systems and the food security of migrants in cities. In China, there have been no studies to date focusing on the food security of migrants during the pandemic. To fill this gap, an online questionnaire survey of food security in Nanjing City, China, was conducted in March 2020. This paper situates the research findings in the general literature on the general migrant experience during the pandemic under COVID and the specifics of the Chinese policy of hukou. Using multiple linear regression and ordered logistic regression, the paper examines the impact of migration status on food security during the pandemic. The paper finds that during the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, households without local Nanjing hukou were more food insecure than those with Nanjing hukou. The differences related more to the absolute quantity of food intake, rather than reduction in food quality or in levels of anxiety over food access. Migrants in China and elsewhere during COVID-19 experienced three pathways to food insecurity-an income gap, an accessibility gap, and a benefits gap. This conceptual framework is used to structure the discussion and interpretation of survey findings and also has wider potential applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Xu
- School of Geography and Ocean SciencesNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Jonathan Crush
- Balsillie School of International AffairsWaterlooOntarioCanada
- University of the Western CapeCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Taiyang Zhong
- School of Geography and Ocean SciencesNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
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Keeney AJ, Quandt A, Meng Y, Flores Jr L, Flores D, Garratt R, Hernandez P, Villaseñor M. “We All Have a Job to Do in This World, It’s up to Us”: Farmworker and Farmer Mental Health in a Rural US-Mexico Border Region. J Agromedicine 2022; 28:365-377. [DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2022.2154298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Quandt SA, Smith SA, Talton JW, Chen H, Laurienti PJ, Arcury TA. Change and Continuity in Preventive Practices Across the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Rural and Urban Latinx Immigrant Worker Families. HYGIENE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 2:200-211. [PMID: 36465586 PMCID: PMC9704367 DOI: 10.3390/hygiene2040018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND (1)The COVID-19 pandemic has put essential workers at high risk for contracting the disease. This study documents situational compliance with public health recommendations such as masking and social distancing among rural and urban Latinx families, with the goal of understanding change over time in COVID-19 risk reduction behaviors. METHODS (2)Respondents for 67 rural families and 44 urban families responded to repeated telephone surveys at three time points in the first year of the pandemic, providing data on use of masks and social distancing by themselves and family members while interacting with others at home, work, and in the community. Cumulative logistic regression models were employed to compare changes in risk behaviors between rural and urban groups over time. RESULTS (3)While group descriptive results indicated behaviors that posed low risk at each time point, regression models revealed greater change between time points for rural than urban residents. Rural residents also had gendered patterns. CONCLUSIONS (4)Patterns of change appear to reflect structural issues such as seasonal labor demand and gender roles more than pandemic fatigue or changing public health recommendations. The findings suggest that structural factors play a role in individuals complying with public health prevention measures for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara A Quandt
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Sydney A Smith
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Jennifer W Talton
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Haiying Chen
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Paul J Laurienti
- Department of Radiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Thomas A Arcury
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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Molenaar J, Van Praag L. Migrants as 'vulnerable groups' in the COVID-19 pandemic: A critical discourse analysis of a taken-for-granted label in academic literature. SSM. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN HEALTH 2022; 2:100076. [PMID: 35529889 PMCID: PMC9052635 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmqr.2022.100076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic affects different people unequally, and migrants are frequently among the groups considered particularly vulnerable. However, conceptualizations of 'vulnerability' are often ambiguous and poorly defined. Using critical discourse analysis methods, this article analyses the academic use of the term 'vulnerable' applied to migrants in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic across public health and social science disciplines. Our findings indicate that the concept of vulnerability is frequently applied to migrants in the COVID-19 context as a descriptor with seemingly taken-for-granted applicability. Migrants are considered vulnerable for a wide variety of reasons, most commonly relating to exposure to and risk of contracting COVID-19; poverty or low socio-economic status; precarity; access to healthcare; discrimination; and language barriers. Drivers of migrants' vulnerability were frequently construed as immutable societal characteristics. Additionally, our analysis revealed widespread generalization in the use of the notion of vulnerability, with limited consideration of the heterogeneity among and between diverse groups of migrants. Conceptualizations of migrants' vulnerability in the COVID-19 pandemic were sometimes used to advance seemingly contradictory policy implications or conclusions, and migrants' own views and lived experiences were often marginalized or excluded within these discourses. Our analysis highlights that although some definable groups of people are certainly more likely to suffer harm in crisis situations like the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of 'vulnerable' as a fixed descriptor has potentially negative implications. As an alternative, we suggest thinking about vulnerability as the dynamic outcome of a process of 'vulnerabilisation' shaped by social order and power relations.
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13
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Acharya SR, Moon DH, Chun JH, Shin YC. COVID-19 and mental health: Anxiety disorders among immigrants due to COVID-19 outbreak in South Korea. Int J Psychiatry Med 2022; 57:323-337. [PMID: 34425688 PMCID: PMC9209883 DOI: 10.1177/00912174211042695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has affected various facets of health. While mental health became a major concern during the COVID-19 outbreak, the impact on the migrants' mental health has still been neglected. The purpose of this study was to examine the COVID-19 outbreak's impact on the mental health of immigrants in South Korea. METHODS A total number of 386 immigrants in South Korea participated in this quantitative cross-sectional study. The standardized e-questionnaire, including the General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale, was used to measure the anxiety level. Logistic regression analysis was performed to find out the determinants of anxiety disorders among immigrants. RESULTS The prevalence of severe anxiety among immigrants was found to be 47.2%. Female immigrants (28.6%) had a lower anxiety disorder than males (71.4%). Immigrants who were married, living alone, had a low income, had a history of health problems were suffered from moderate to severe anxiety. Immigrants who were unemployed (OR 2.302, 95% CI = 1.353-3.917) and lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 outbreak (OR 2.197, 95% CI = 1.312-3.678) have a higher anxiety disorder. Immigrants aged over 30 years were found to suffer from a high level of anxiety (OR 2.285, 95% CI = 1.184-4.410). Relief support from the government was significantly associated with anxiety disorder among immigrants (p < 0.01, OR = 3.151, 95% CI = 1.962-5.061). CONCLUSION With very limited studies on immigrants' mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, this paper provides scientific research evidence of the COVID-19 outbreak's impact on the mental health of migrants. Our study has consequences for implementing integrated psychological interventions and health promotion strategies for the well-being of immigrants' mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Raj Acharya
- Department of Public Health, Busan Medical Campus, Inje University, Busan, South Korea,Shiva Raj Acharya, Department of Public Health, Busan Medical Campus, Inje University, Busan, South Korea.
| | - Deog Hwan Moon
- Department of Public Health, Busan Medical Campus, Inje University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Jin Ho Chun
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Busan Medical Campus, Inje University, Busan, South Korea
| | - Yong Chul Shin
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Inje University, Gimhae, South Korea
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14
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Guillot-Wright S, Cherryhomes E, Wang L, Overcash M. Systems and subversion: a review of structural violence and im/migrant health. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 47:101431. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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15
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SteelFisher GK, Caporello HL, Lubell KM, Ben-Porath EN, Green AR, Luo F, Briseno L, Lane L, Sheff SE, Taillepierre JD, Espino L, Boyea A. Getting Critical Information During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Experiences of Spanish and Chinese Speakers With Limited English Proficiency. Health Secur 2022; 20:273-285. [PMID: 35771967 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2021.0218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
People with limited English proficiency in the United States have suffered disproportionate negative health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Effective communications are critical tools in addressing inequities insofar as they can motivate adoption of protective behaviors and reduce incidence of disease; however, little is known about experiences of communities with limited English proficiency receiving relevant information during COVID-19 or other outbreaks. To address this gap and provide inputs for communication strategies, we completed a study based on 2 novel and nationally representative surveys conducted between June and August 2020 among Spanish and Chinese speakers with limited English proficiency (n = 764 and n = 355, respectively). Results first showed that Spanish and Chinese speakers did not consistently receive information about protective behaviors from key public health and government institutions early in the pandemic. Second, for such information, Spanish and Chinese speakers used a diverse set of information resources that included family and friends, social media, and traditional media from both inside and outside the United States. Third, Spanish and Chinese speakers faced challenges getting COVID-19 information, including receiving media messages that felt discriminatory toward Latinx or Chinese people. Together, these findings suggest gaps in effectively reaching Spanish and Chinese speakers. Data highlight the important role of bilingual materials to support sharing of information between Spanish or Chinese speakers and English speakers within their social networks, and the need for digital news content for traditional and social media. Finally, efforts are needed to address discriminatory messaging in media and to actively counter it in public health communications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian K SteelFisher
- Gillian K. SteelFisher, PhD, MSc, is a Senior Research Scientist and Deputy Director, Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Hannah L Caporello
- Hannah L. Caporello is Senior Research Projects Manager, Harvard Opinion Research Program, Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Keri M Lubell
- Keri M. Lubell, PhD, is a Behavioral Scientist, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Eran N Ben-Porath
- Eran N. Ben-Porath, PhD, is Executive Vice President, SSRS, Glen Mills, PA
| | - Alexander R Green
- Alexander R. Green, MD, MPH, was an Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Feijun Luo
- Feijun Luo, PhD, is a Senior Economist, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Lisa Briseno
- Lisa Briseno, MS, is a Senior Health Communication Specialist, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Lindsay Lane
- Lindsay Lane, MPH, is a Health Communication Specialists, Center for Preparedness and Response, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Sarah E Sheff
- Sarah E. Sheff, PhD, is a Health Communication Specialists, Center for Preparedness and Response, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Julio Dicent Taillepierre
- Julio Dicent Taillepierre, MS, is Team Lead, Initiatives and Partnerships Team, Office of Minority Health and Health Equity, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Laura Espino
- Laura Espino is Membership Director, National Public Health Information Coalition, Canton, GA
| | - Alyssa Boyea
- Alyssa Boyea, MPH, CPH, is Director, Infectious Disease Preparedness, Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, Arlington, VA
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16
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Raj Acharya S, Hwan Moon D, Chul Shin Y. Depressive Symptoms Among Migrant Workers in South Korea Amid COVID-19 Pandemic. PSYCHIAT CLIN PSYCH 2022; 32:118-124. [PMID: 38764864 PMCID: PMC11099632 DOI: 10.5152/pcp.2022.21162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to investigate the depressive symptoms among migrant workers in South Korea amid the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Methods This web-based cross-sectional survey involved migrant workers in South Korea to examine their depression levels using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 scale. Logistic regression was used to find out the factors associated with depression. Results Migrant workers exhibited mild to severe depressive symptoms (98.4%) of which 41.7% had severe depression (n = 161). Migrant workers aged above 25 years were shown to have a significantly higher level of depression (odds ratio = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.084-4.193). Male workers (71.1%) had a higher depression level than females (28.9%). Losing a job during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic (odds ratio = 3.89, 95% CI = 1.705-8.906) and not having any social relief support (odds ratio = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.109-3.351) were significantly associated with depression. Conclusion Migrants workers were found to be experiencing a severe level of depression. Mental healthcare should be prioritized and made accessible to vulnerable and risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Raj Acharya
- Graduate School of Public health, Busan Medical Campus, Inje University, South Korea
| | - Deog Hwan Moon
- Graduate School of Public health, Busan Medical Campus, Inje University, South Korea
| | - Yong Chul Shin
- Department of Occupational Health & Safety, Inje University, South Korea
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17
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Mengesha Z, Alloun E, Weber D, Smith M, Harris P. "Lived the Pandemic Twice": A Scoping Review of the Unequal Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Asylum Seekers and Undocumented Migrants. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:6624. [PMID: 35682211 PMCID: PMC9180209 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic is widening pre-pandemic health, social, and economic inequalities between refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers and the general population. This global scoping review examined the impact of the pandemic on community-based asylum seekers and undocumented migrants in high- and upper-middle-income countries. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of peer-reviewed articles in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest Central. We applied Katikireddi's framework of understanding and addressing inequalities to examine the differential impact of the pandemic across exposure, vulnerability to infection, disease consequences, social consequences, effectiveness of control measures, and adverse consequences of control measures. RESULTS We included 32 articles in the review. The analysis showed that asylum seekers and undocumented migrants experienced greater exposure to the COVID-19 virus and higher infection rates. They also experienced differential social consequences in the form of job loss and lost and/or reduced work hours. The effectiveness of pandemic response measures on asylum seekers and undocumented migrants was also affected by pre-pandemic social and economic marginalisation, exclusion from pandemic-induced policy measures, lack of appropriate pandemic communication, and variable trust in governments and authority. Pandemic control measures had greater adverse consequences on asylum seekers and undocumented migrants than the general population, with the majority of studies included in this review reporting worsened mental health and social isolation conditions and reduced access to health care. CONCLUSIONS Asylum seekers and undocumented migrants experienced a disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic across the six thematic areas of comparison. Policies that reduce exposure and vulnerability to the infection, grant equitable access to health and social care, and build capacities and resilience, are critical to enable asylum seekers and undocumented migrants to cope with and recover from pre-pandemic and pandemic-induced inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelalem Mengesha
- Centre for Health Equity Training, Research & Evaluation (CHETRE), UNSW Australia Research Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, A Unit of Population Health, Member of the Ingham Institute, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia;
| | - Esther Alloun
- Health Equity Research and Development Unit (HERDU), UNSW Australia Research Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia;
| | - Danielle Weber
- NSW Refugee Health Service, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (D.W.); (M.S.)
| | - Mitchell Smith
- NSW Refugee Health Service, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia; (D.W.); (M.S.)
| | - Patrick Harris
- Centre for Health Equity Training, Research & Evaluation (CHETRE), UNSW Australia Research Centre for Primary Health Care & Equity, A Unit of Population Health, Member of the Ingham Institute, Sydney, NSW 2170, Australia;
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18
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Chowdhury N, Kainth A, Godlu A, Farinas HA, Sikdar S, Turin TC. Mental Health and Well-Being Needs among Non-Health Essential Workers during Recent Epidemics and Pandemics. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:5961. [PMID: 35627494 PMCID: PMC9141036 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Essential workers, those who work in a variety of sectors that are critical to sustain the societal infrastructure, were affected both physically and mentally by the COVID-19 pandemic. While the most studied group of this population were healthcare workers, other essential non-health workers such as those working in the law enforcement sector, grocery services, food services, delivery services, and other sectors were studied less commonly. We explored both the academic (using MEDLINE, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Sociological Abstracts, and Web of Science databases) and grey literature (using Google Scholar) to identify studies on the mental health effects of the six pandemics in the last 20 years (2000-2020). We identified a total of 32 articles; all of them pertained to COVID-19 except for one about Ebola. We found there was an increase in depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health issues among non-health essential workers. They were more worried about passing the infection on to their loved ones and often did not have adequate training, supply of personal protective equipment, and support to cope with the effects. Generally, women, people having lower education, and younger people were more likely to be affected by a pandemic. Exploring occupation-specific coping strategies of those whose mental health was affected during a pandemic using more robust methodologies such as longitudinal studies and in-depth qualitative exploration would help facilitate appropriate responses for their recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nashit Chowdhury
- Department of Family Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada;
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Alberta International Medical Graduates Association, Calgary, AB T2E 3K8, Canada;
| | - Ankit Kainth
- Community Scholar and Citizen Researcher, Immigrant and Refugee Health Interest Group, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; (A.K.); (A.G.); (H.A.F.)
| | - Atobrhan Godlu
- Community Scholar and Citizen Researcher, Immigrant and Refugee Health Interest Group, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; (A.K.); (A.G.); (H.A.F.)
| | - Honey Abigail Farinas
- Community Scholar and Citizen Researcher, Immigrant and Refugee Health Interest Group, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; (A.K.); (A.G.); (H.A.F.)
| | - Saif Sikdar
- Alberta International Medical Graduates Association, Calgary, AB T2E 3K8, Canada;
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Disease, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Tanvir C. Turin
- Department of Family Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada;
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
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19
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Castellon-Lopez YM, Carson SL, Mansfield L, Garrison NA, Barron J, Morris D, Ntekume E, Vassar SD, Norris KC, Brown AF, Casillas A. "The System Doesn't Let Us in"-A Call for Inclusive COVID-19 Vaccine Outreach Rooted in Los Angeles Latinos' Experience of Pandemic Hardships and Inequities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:5785. [PMID: 35627322 PMCID: PMC9141159 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Latino adults in Los Angeles have experienced disproportionate cases, deaths, and socioeconomic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. This qualitative study aimed to explore community perspectives on readiness for COVID-19 vaccination and to identify culturally tailored vaccine outreach strategies. METHODS We conducted virtual focus groups with Los Angeles County Latino/a residents via Zoom between December 2020 to January 2021, as the first COVID-19 vaccines were receiving Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Focus groups were facilitated in Spanish and English by bilingual members of the research team. Discussions were analyzed via Atlas.ti software using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Three focus groups (n = 15; four to six people each; two Spanish focus groups; one English) were conducted. Thematic findings centered on Latino COVID-19 vaccine equity: (1) Disproportionate infection risk due to essential worker status and socioeconomic burdens, misinformation, and familial or cultural tensions (2) Concerns for inequitable vaccine access due to immigration fears and limited healthcare access, and (3) A need for community-centered COVID-19 vaccine outreach and access. CONCLUSIONS Our study on early Latino adult reactions to vaccine roll-out suggests the need for outreach strategies centering on validating community hardships, combating dis-/misinformation through trusted sources, and addressing socio-economic needs impacted by the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yelba M. Castellon-Lopez
- Department of Family Medicine, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Savanna L. Carson
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Lisa Mansfield
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Nanibaa’ A. Garrison
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
- Institute for Society & Genetics, College of Letters and Science, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Institute for Precision Health, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Juan Barron
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
| | - D’Ann Morris
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Ejiro Ntekume
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Stefanie D. Vassar
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Keith C. Norris
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Arleen F. Brown
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
- Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, Sylmar, CA 91342, USA
| | - Alejandra Casillas
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (S.L.C.); (L.M.); (N.A.G.); (J.B.); (D.M.); (E.N.); (S.D.V.); (K.C.N.); (A.F.B.); (A.C.)
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20
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Greteman BB, Garcia-Auguste CJ, Gryzlak BM, Kahl AR, Lutgendorf SK, Chrischilles EA, Charlton ME. Rural and urban differences in perceptions, behaviors, and health care disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Rural Health 2022; 38:932-944. [PMID: 35466479 PMCID: PMC9115219 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The objective of this study was to assess perceptions, health behaviors, and disruptions related to the COVID‐19 pandemic in a largely rural, Midwestern state, and to examine differences between rural and urban respondents. Methods A questionnaire was mailed August 2020 to a sample of 10,009 registered voters in Iowa ages 18‐100 years, with oversampling from 6 select rural counties. Previously validated and tested items assessed COVID‐19 precautions, health care disruptions, emotional reactions, health behavior changes, telehealth and experiences with the internet, and demographic characteristics. Findings There were 4,048 respondents (40% response rate); 65% were rural and 35% were urban residents. The average age of respondents was 58.3 years and 45% of respondents identified as female. Rural respondents reported less concern about COVID‐19 in their community (29% vs 40%, P<.001) and lower perceived importance of social distancing (51% vs 64%, P<.001). Urban respondents more often reported experiencing disruption to daily living, stronger negative emotional reactions, and displayed more pronounced behavior change compared to their rural counterparts. For example, urban respondents reported more pandemic‐related job losses (6% vs 4%, P = .05), disruptions to daily activities (48% vs 35%, P<.001), and use of telehealth services during the pandemic (24% vs 16%, P<.001). Conclusions The majority of respondents reported disruptions to normal activities, medical appointment cancellations, and emotional distress during the first 6 months of the pandemic. The impact of the pandemic on urban residents appeared to be greater than for rural respondents. Timing of pandemic spread and varying beliefs are potential explanations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna B Greteman
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | | | - Brian M Gryzlak
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Amanda R Kahl
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Susan K Lutgendorf
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | | | - Mary E Charlton
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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21
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Mora AM, Lewnard JA, Rauch S, Kogut K, Jewell N, Cuevas M, Eskenazi B. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on California farmworkers' mental health and food security. J Agromedicine 2022; 27:303-314. [PMID: 35333134 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2022.2058664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES . To examine the mental health and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Latino farmworkers in California. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of adult farmworkers (n=1,115) between July 16 and November 30, 2020. We collected information via phone interviews. We used the Patient Health Questionnaire-2 and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 scales to assess depression and anxiety symptoms. We adapted the U.S. Department of Agriculture six-question scale to assess household food insecurity. RESULTS Nearly 20% of study participants reported symptoms of depression and 15% reported symptoms of anxiety. Six percent reported increasing their substance use and 37% experienced food insecurity during the pandemic. Depression and anxiety symptoms were more frequent among women or those who had experienced ≥1 recent COVID-19 related symptom, but less frequent among those who were married and/or worked in the fields. Increased substance use was more common among farmworkers who had ≥1 COVID-19 related symptom, but less common among women and those who spoke a language other than English at home, were born outside the U.S., or lived in crowded housing. Food insecurity was common among those who were born outside the U.S. or lived with children <18 years, but less common among those with more education, a higher income, or who had lived longer in the U.S. CONCLUSIONS The pandemic has exacerbated challenges affecting mental health and and food security among farmworkers. Interventions and prevention efforts, led by respected and trusted members of the community, should include on-the-spot supplemental income, increased mental health services, and food support services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Mora
- Center for Environmental Research and Community Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 1995 University Avenue, suite 265, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
| | - Joseph A Lewnard
- Center for Computational Biology, College of Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, 108 Stanley Hall, Berkeley, CA 94720-3220, United States.,Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way Room 5302, Berkeley, CA 94720-7360, United States.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way Room 5302, Berkeley, CA 94720-7360, United States
| | - Stephen Rauch
- Center for Environmental Research and Community Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 1995 University Avenue, suite 265, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
| | - Katherine Kogut
- Center for Environmental Research and Community Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 1995 University Avenue, suite 265, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
| | - Nicholas Jewell
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom.,Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 2121 Berkeley Way Room 5302, Berkeley, CA 94720-7360, United States
| | - Maximiliano Cuevas
- Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas, 430 Airport Blvd, Salinas, CA 93905, United States
| | - Brenda Eskenazi
- Center for Environmental Research and Community Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, 1995 University Avenue, suite 265, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
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22
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Oliva-Arocas A, Benavente P, Ronda E, Diaz E. Health of International Migrant Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review. Front Public Health 2022; 10:816597. [PMID: 35252094 PMCID: PMC8888537 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.816597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and control measures adopted have had a disproportionate impact on workers, with migrants being a group specifically affected but poorly studied. This scoping review aims to describe the evidence published on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical and mental health of migrant workers. METHODS Papers written in English covering physical and mental health among international migrant workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, retrieved from six electronic databases searched on July 31, 2021, were included. A total of 1,096 references were extracted, of which 26 studies were finally included. RESULTS Most of the migrant populations studied were born in Asia (16 of 26) and Latin America (8 of 26) and were essential workers (15 of 26). Few studies described the length of stay in the host country (9 of 26), the legal status of the migrant population (6 of 26), or established comparison groups (7 of 26). Ten studies described COVID-19 outbreaks with high infection rates. Fourteen studies evaluated mental health (anxiety, depression, worries, fears, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder). Three of the 26 studies presented collateral positive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic because of improved hygiene. CONCLUSION There is a limited number of original publications related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical and mental health of migrant workers around the world. These publications mainly focus on migrants born in Asia and Latin America. The physical, long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has, so far, not been evaluated. The positive collateral effects of improving healthcare conditions for migrant workers should also be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Oliva-Arocas
- Department of Community Nursing, Preventive Medicine and Public Health and History of Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Pierina Benavente
- Pandemic Centre, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Elena Ronda
- Department of Community Nursing, Preventive Medicine and Public Health and History of Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
- CIBER for Epidemiology and Public Health, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esperanza Diaz
- Pandemic Centre, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Unit for Migration and Health, Norwegian Public Health Institute, Oslo, Norway
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23
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Johnson C, Dukes K, Sinnwell E, Culp K, Zinnel D, Corwin C. Innovative Cohort Process to Minimize COVID-19 Infection for Migrant Farmworkers During Travel to Iowa. Workplace Health Saf 2022; 70:17-23. [PMID: 35037514 DOI: 10.1177/21650799211045308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Migrant and seasonal farmworkers (MSFW) experience disproportionate infection, severe disease and death from COVID-19. This report describes an innovative process to address the safety of MSFW that utilized cohorting that eventually allowed for safe release to work in the fields on a large family farm in Iowa. Methods: Upon worker departure from Mexico, the employer arranged for bus seat assignments, mask use, and hand hygiene practice during the 3-day trip to Iowa. Upon arrival at the farm, surveillance testing and low-density housing cohorting based upon travel seat assignments allowed for early identification of infected workers and appropriate quarantine as per CDC guidelines. Upon completion of isolation or quarantine as appropriate, workers were released to congregate housing and work in the fields. Findings: Compared to a migrant farmworker COVID-19 outbreak without travel pre-planning, the cohorting process produced a 3.5% positivity rate compared to an earlier season July farmworker group on the same farm with a 12.7% positivity rate. Conclusions/Application to Practice: The success of this model points to the power of collaboration between farm employer, health care providers and workers to minimize worker infection and enable safe work in the fields. Increased state and federal support for MSFW protections could support infrastructure to proactively plan for prevention mechanisms to prevent the spread of known communicable disease. With support in place from the top down, employers, workers, and health care providers will be able to prioritize the management of infectious diseases and the needs of essential workers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kimberly Dukes
- Iowa City VA Medical Center.,University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
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24
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Chang MH, Moonesinghe R, Truman BI. Racial and ethnic differences in COVID-19 hospitalizations by metropolitan status among Medicare beneficiaries, 1 January-31 December 2020. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 44:e211-e220. [PMID: 34611709 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdab355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Risk for COVID-19 hospitalizations increases with increasing age and presence of underlying medical conditions. However, the burden has not been well-assessed in metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas by race/ethnicity among Medicare population with chronic conditions. METHODS We used the 2020 Medicare data to estimate COVID-19 hospitalization rates by race/ethnicity among Medicare beneficiaries for COVID-19 by metropolitan status and to assess the association of hospitalizations from COVID-19 with each of selected 29 chronic conditions for patients by metropolitan status and by race/ethnicity. RESULTS The COVID-19 hospitalization rate was higher among beneficiaries residing in nonmetropolitan counties than those residing in metropolitan counties in 2020. Approximately 1 in 2 AI/AN, 1 in 3 NHB, Hispanic and A/PI, and 1 in 4 NHW beneficiaries with COVID-19 residing in nonmetropolitan counties were hospitalized. Beneficiaries with COVID-19 and chronic conditions were more likely to be hospitalized compared with those without chronic conditions. CONCLUSIONS Hospitalization rates among beneficiaries with COVID-19 and chronic conditions were not distributed equally by race/ethnicity and by metropolitan status. Researchers, policymakers and practitioners can use these findings to explore more effective ways of reducing racial/ethnic and geographic disparities among minorities disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and are at highest risk of hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man-Huei Chang
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ramal Moonesinghe
- Office of Genomics and Precision Public Health, CDC, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Benedict I Truman
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
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McElfish PA, Purvis R, James LP, Willis DE, Andersen JA. Perceived Barriers to COVID-19 Testing. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2278. [PMID: 33668958 PMCID: PMC7956381 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Prior studies have documented that access to testing has not been equitable across all communities in the US, with less testing availability and lower testing rates documented in rural counties and lower income communities. However, there is limited understanding of the perceived barriers to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing. The purpose of this study was to document the perceived barriers to COVID-19 testing. (2) Methods: Arkansas residents were recruited using a volunteer research participant registry. Participants were asked an open-ended question regarding their perceived barriers to testing. A qualitative descriptive analytical approach was used. (3) Results: Overall, 1221 people responded to the open-ended question. The primary barriers to testing described by participants were confusion and uncertainty regarding testing guidelines and where to go for testing, lack of accessible testing locations, perceptions that the nasal swab method was too painful, and long wait times for testing results. (4) Conclusions: This study documents participant reported barriers to COVID-19 testing. Through the use of a qualitative descriptive method, participants were able to discuss their concerns in their own words. This work provides important insights that can help public health leaders and healthcare providers with understanding and mitigating barriers to COVID-19 testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pearl A. McElfish
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA; (R.P.); (D.E.W.); (J.A.A.)
| | - Rachel Purvis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA; (R.P.); (D.E.W.); (J.A.A.)
| | - Laura P. James
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA;
| | - Don E. Willis
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA; (R.P.); (D.E.W.); (J.A.A.)
| | - Jennifer A. Andersen
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR 72703, USA; (R.P.); (D.E.W.); (J.A.A.)
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