JACKSON, MS (Ben Caxton) — African Americans are disproportionately affected by coronavirus and Mississippiâs state epidemiologist says over half of the positive tests and deaths are black. As of April 7 at 6:00 PM, 410 people have been hospitalized for the virus in Mississippi, and 67 have died. In the Delta, Leflore County is reporting four deaths, Bolivar, and Washington Counties two each, and Tunica, Sunflower, Yazoo, and Coahoma one each. Tennessee reports 72 deaths and Arkansas 18 deaths. Dr. Paul Byers says underlying health problems could make African-Americans more vulnerable to the contagious virus. They make up about 38% of Mississippiâs population of nearly 3 million. The state also has high rates of heart disease, diabetes, and asthma as well as a high poverty rate and a large percentage of uninsured residents who might be less likely to seek preventative medical care for chronic conditions. Most of the people who have died of COVID-19 in Mississippi are 60 or older and the outbreak has spread to at least 41 long-term care facilities.
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