The coronavirus pandemic has left indigenous peoples at particular risk because so many have poorer health and less access to health care. By thevmilko.
In this April 24, 2020, photo, provided by the Indigenous People Alliance of the Archipelago, indigenous peoples from the Buntao’ community in Indonesia’s North Toraja regency in South Sulawesi Province use a wooden barrier to block off their village. Indigenous peoples across the archipelago are locking down their villages in an effort to protect their communities from the coronavirus.
While there are, of course, vast differences among indigenous groups, including lifestyle and socioeconomic factors, the United Nations estimates that the life expectancy of indigenous people can be up to 20 years lower than that of their counterparts. A recommendation from the Australian government underscored the disparities.
For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms. But for some, especially those with health problems and older people, it can cause more severe illness and lead to death. “Many people that are able to are simply running back into the forest, running back up the mountain, trying to get away from the urban settings to get away from potential vectors,” he said. “They simply closed down, put up obstacles, and block the roads going into their territories.”
While many marginalized groups are finding themselves at risk, the stakes may be even higher for indigenous people who were already struggling to maintain their traditions and keep the world at bay, like those in the Amazon rainforest who have long contended with encroachment on their lands by loggers, miners and farmers.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Teleheath will help create 'a different health-care system' after the virus, Humana CEO saysHumana CEO Bruce Broussard discussed how the coronavirus pandemic is changing health care on 'Closing Bell.'
Read more »
Coronavirus pandemic strains LGBTQ health clinicsThere are over 200 health centers in the U.S. that specialize in LGBTQ care. Some of the largest are reporting steep revenue declines and furloughs.
Read more »
Ford and 3M begin shipping respirators to frontline health workers fighting coronavirus pandemicApproximately 90 paid volunteers from the United Auto Workers union have assembled more than 10,000 of the respirators at a Ford facility near Flat Rock, Michigan.
Read more »
A Psychologist Advises On How To Take Care Of Mental Health During The PandemicClinical psychologist Dr. Amelia Aldao answers listener questions on how to maintain mental wellness during the pandemic.
Read more »
Coronavirus Update: House Appropriations Subcommittee Assesses Coronavirus ResponseNPR's health policy and political correspondents discuss the latest developments in the nation's response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Read more »
Banksy Gifts Painting Honoring Health Workers to UK HospitalBanksy's latest piece of art honors health workers serving as heroes on a daily basis during the coronavirus pandemic.
Read more »