Document Type

Capstone Experience

Graduation Date

5-2021

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

Department

Health Promotion

First Committee Member

Dr. Athena Ramos

Second Committee Member

Keith Hansen

Third Committee Member

Abbey Lowe

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has manifested worldwide distress, affecting the lives of all population groups. Racial disparities are evident as minority populations are being disproportionately affected by the impacts of COVID-19. Data indicate that the Latino population may experience more severe cases of COVID-19 and have a higher mortality rate. However, little is known about the effects that the pandemic is having on day-to-day life. Thus, the purpose of this study is to investigate COVID-19's impact on life aspects including employment situation, finances, mental health, and experiences of discrimination among the Omaha Latino community. A survey collected data from 311 participants to understand how the pandemic had affected their lives. The study found that over half of participants were economically impacted from the pandemic, and over 60% of participants experienced an adverse employment impact. Women also reported more mental health concerns and had higher levels of worry. Spanish speakers were more likely to experience negative economic and employment impacts than English speakers. Spanish speakers were also found to have higher levels of mental health concerns and worry than English speakers. The study highlights the serious issues that Latinos have faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and further details the disparities present in the United States. In order to address the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Latinos, programmatic and policy recommendations are provided.

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