INFECTIOUS DISEASE
Empowering Latino Families Against Infectious Diseases
What is Infectious Disease?
Infectious diseases are illnesses caused by harmful microorganisms that can spread from person to person, through contaminated food or water, insect bites, or the environment. Common examples include influenza, COVID-19, and foodborne illnesses like salmonella, as described by the Cleveland Clinic.
High-Level Challenges:
Latino families often face unique challenges that can increase their risk of infectious diseases. Factors such as:
Limited Access to Health Care: Many Latino families lack health insurance or face financial barriers that make it difficult to access preventive care or treatment, , according to the Office of Minority Health
Lower Vaccination Rates: Due to misinformation or limited access to vaccination sites, vaccination uptake may be lower in some Latino communities, as noted in a study published on PMC.
Barriers: Limited availability of health information in Spanish or other native languages can hinder understanding of prevention and treatment options, according to Contagion Live.
Workplace Risks: Higher representation in essential industries (e.g., agriculture, construction, service) increases exposure to infectious diseases, as highlighted in a study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases.
Overcrowded Living Conditions: Multigenerational households or crowded housing environments can make it easier for diseases to spread, according to the Online Journal of Issues in Nursing.
Cultural and Systemic Barriers: Fear of discrimination, mistrust in the health care system, or immigration concerns may delay seeking medical help, as discussed in a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
Why This Issue Is Important to Latinos
Cultural nuances and work environments affect exposure and prevention efforts. By focusing on community-specific outreach, education, and resources, we can help reduce the spread of infectious diseases and support the health and well-being of Latino families.
COVID-19:
Latinos have experienced significantly higher infection, hospitalization, and mortality rates compared to non-Hispanic whites. Factors contributing to this disparity include overrepresentation in essential jobs, multigenerational housing, and barriers to health care access, according to the Latino Policy and Politics Initiative.
Influenza and Pneumonia:
During the 2021–2022 flu season, Hispanic adults were 30% less likely to have received flu vaccines than non-Hispanic whites. Additionally, Hispanic American adults are 30% less likely than non-Hispanic white adults to have ever received the pneumococcal vaccine, increasing vulnerability to pneumonia-related complications, according to the Office of Minority Health.
Tuberculosis (TB):
The TB rate among Latinos is 4.4 cases per 100,000, more than eight times higher than for non-Hispanic whites (0.5 per 100,000). Socioeconomic challenges and limited access to preventive care play significant roles in this disparity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Data: Key Statistics
COVID-19
COVID-19 Impact:
Disparities are also highlighted by data from the Latino Policy and Politics Initiative, Pew Research Center, and the American Medical Association.
Higher Infection Rates:
Latinos accounted for 28.4% of reported COVID-19 cases in the U.S., despite making up only 18.9% of the population (CDC).
Hospitalization Disparities:
As of late 2020, Hispanic adults had a COVID-19 hospitalization rate of 149.5 per 100,000, significantly higher than 53.9 per 100,000 for non-Hispanic whites (CDC).
Mortality Rates:
Latino communities faced higher COVID-19 mortality rates due to preexisting health disparities and limited health care access (The Commonwealth Fund).
Contributing Factors:
Overrepresentation in essential industries (e.g., agriculture, service, health care), multigenerational housing, and lower insurance coverage heightened exposure and severity (CDC).
Tuberculosis (TB)
Contributing Factors:
Immigration from regions with higher TB prevalence, poverty, overcrowded housing, and workplace exposure exacerbate TB risks (CDC; NTCA).
Higher Prevalence:
The TB rate among Latinos is 4.4 cases per 100,000, more than eight times higher than for non-Hispanic whites (0.5 per 100,000) (CDC).
Barriers to Treatment:
Delayed diagnosis and limited access to health care lead to more advanced disease stages among Latinos (CDC).
Influenza and Pneumonia
Disparities in Access:
Lack of Spanish-language vaccine outreach, health care access barriers, and misinformation contribute to lower vaccination rates (CDC).
Low Vaccination Rates:
During the 2021–2022 flu season, only 37.9% of Hispanic adults received the flu vaccine, compared to 53.9% of non-Hispanic whites (Office of Minority Health).
Pneumococcal Vaccination Gap:
Hispanic adults are 30% less likely to have received the pneumonia vaccine than non-Hispanic whites (CDC).
Higher Risk of Complications:
Latinos are more likely to face complications from flu and pneumonia due to underlying conditions like diabetes and asthma (Office of Minority Health).
Programming, Policies & Recommendations
Current Policies
Note: These are existing policies we’ve compiled that are related to Infectious Disease.
Policy and Programmatic Recommendations
Data-driven solutions to further minimize infectious disease spread among U.S. Latinos.
Programmatic Recommendations:
- Implement Comprehensive Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Programs
- Develop and enforce IPC protocols that include standard precautions, transmission-based precautions, and environmental cleaning.
- Enhance Surveillance Systems for Early Detection
- Strengthen surveillance to promptly identify and respond to infectious disease outbreaks.
- Provide Ongoing Education and Training for Healthcare Personnel
- Regularly train healthcare workers on IPC practices, including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and updated protocols.
- Community-Based Surveillance Programs
- Engage community members in monitoring and reporting infectious diseases to enable early detection and response.
- Syringe Services Programs (SSPs)
- Implement SSPs to provide access to sterile syringes, safe disposal, and related health services, reducing the transmission of blood-borne infections.
- Implement Community Health Worker Programs to Reduce Emergency Department Utilization
- Develop and integrate CHW programs within healthcare systems serving underserved communities. CHWs can provide culturally competent education, support chronic disease management, and address social determinants of health, thereby reducing unnecessary ED visits.
Policy Recommendations:
Informed by Evidence: Policy Recommendations from Experts
- Expand Medicaid Access Nationwide
Encourage all states to expand Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to ensure low-income Latino families have access to preventive and primary care services. Many Latino families, especially in non-expansion states, face higher uninsured rates (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities). - Increase Funding for Community Health Centers
Boost federal funding for community health centers that serve underserved populations, regardless of immigration status. Additional funding would help expand services like vaccinations and chronic disease management, benefiting Latino families through affordable, culturally competent care (ASPE). - Expand Language Access Services
Require health care providers and insurers to offer materials and interpreters in Spanish and other relevant languages. Expanding access to linguistically appropriate services ensures Latino communities understand health information and treatment options (Brookings Institution). - Offer Targeted Vaccine Outreach and Education
Fund culturally relevant vaccination campaigns targeting Latino communities, focusing on community-based distribution to address misinformation and increase vaccine uptake, reducing disparities in preventable diseases like influenza and pneumonia (Salud America!). - Implement Safer Working Conditions
Advocate for universal paid sick leave for all workers, particularly in low-wage and essential industries, and promote regular health checks in high-risk environments. Paid sick leave reduces the risk of disease transmission, especially in jobs without health benefits (Salud America!).
Call to Action: Get Involved
Infectious disease prevention is essential for healthy communities and a resilient public health system.
Investing in prevention isn’t just about controlling outbreaks—it’s about protecting lives and reducing long-term health costs. By prioritizing disease prevention and early intervention, we can reduce health disparities, strengthen Latino communities, and create a healthier future for all.
🏛️ For Decision Makers
1. Invest in Community Health Initiatives
- 💰 Increase funding for community health centers and programs offering affordable, accessible care.
- 🤝 Support public-private partnerships to develop localized health solutions for Latino communities.
2. Promote Health Equity Policies
- 📢 Advocate for universal Medicaid expansion and the removal of cost barriers to preventive care.
- 📊 Fund culturally tailored health campaigns to combat misinformation and improve vaccine access.
3. Mandate Culturally Competent Care
- 🌍 Require health care providers to offer language access services (interpreters, translated materials).
- 🎓 Provide incentives for training health professionals in culturally responsive care.
4. Support Paid Sick Leave Legislation
🗣️ Push for national paid sick leave policies so Latino workers can prioritize their health without risking their income.
👨👩👧 For Families
1. Prioritize Preventive Care
- 🩺 Schedule regular checkups, vaccinations, and screenings—many community health centers offer low-cost or free services.
2. Learn About Healthcare Options
- 📋 Explore programs like Medicaid, CHIP, or Affordable Care Act marketplace plans for affordable coverage.
3. Stay Informed
- 📚 Get health information from trusted sources in Spanish or your preferred language.
- 📅 Attend local health events like vaccine drives and community workshops.
4. Advocate Within Your Community
- 💬 Encourage friends and family to access health resources and share info about free or affordable care.
- 🤲 Join local advocacy groups that promote health equity in Latino communities.
Partners and Resources for Families
🤝 Our Core Partners
Vaccinate Your Family
Protecting people of all ages from vaccine-preventable diseases.
At LUCHAR, our collaboration with Vaccinate Your Family strengthens our efforts to provide accurate, science-based information on immunizations. Together, we advocate for policies that promote vaccine access and public health education, ensuring Latino communities are informed and protected.
Pfizer’s Vaccine Adoption and Equity Team
Advancing health through innovative vaccines and medicines.
Pfizer partners with LUCHAR to support public health initiatives focused on infectious disease prevention in Latino communities. Their expertise in vaccine development and health advocacy helps us amplify education and outreach efforts nationwide.
Marked by COVID
Advocating for COVID-19 response, equity, and remembrance.
Our collaboration with Marked by COVID centers on raising awareness of the pandemic’s impact on Latino communities. Together, we advocate for policies that prioritize equity in public health responses and honor those affected by COVID-19.
Hispanic Communications Network (HCN)
Bringing health and wellness information to Latino communities through media.
HCN partners with LUCHAR to share culturally relevant health messages across radio, TV, and digital platforms. Their expertise in Spanish-language media helps us reach diverse audiences with critical health information.
Ventanillas de Salud (VDS)
Providing health information and services through Mexican consulates.
Our work with Ventanillas de Salud helps bridge gaps in healthcare access for Mexican migrants in the U.S. Through VDS’s network, we offer resources, screenings, and health education tailored to Latino communities.
UnidosUS
Advocating for Latino health and equity nationwide.
LUCHAR and UnidosUS collaborate to advance health equity initiatives that support Latino families. Together, we focus on policy advocacy, research, and programs that improve healthcare access and outcomes for Hispanic communities.
Health Confianza
Improving health literacy and healthcare access for Latino communities.
Health Confianza works alongside LUCHAR to empower Latino families with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed health decisions. Through workshops, outreach, and trusted messaging, we promote health literacy and equity.
Salud America!
Inspiring healthy changes through Latino-focused stories and advocacy.
Our partnership with Salud America! helps amplify culturally relevant health content, tools, and stories. Together, we inspire policy changes and community action to improve health outcomes for Latino children and families.
🌍 Additional Resources for Families
While our core work is in partnership with organizations like Vaccinate Your Family and Ventanillas de Salud, we also connect Latino families to a broader network of organizations dedicated to promoting health, preventing infectious diseases, and improving access to care. These organizations work tirelessly to provide education, advocacy, and resources that support the well-being of Latino communities across the country.
Here’s a comprehensive list of free, credible resources that provide information on infectious diseases, vaccines, prevention, and health services—many of which offer Spanish-language or bilingual support.
National Organizations & Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Vaccines & Immunizations
Comprehensive information on vaccines, immunization schedules, and disease prevention.
Visit CDC Vaccines
National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID)
Educational resources on infectious disease prevention, vaccine information, and public health initiatives.
Visit NFID
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) – Vaccines & Immunizations
Resources on vaccine safety, health coverage options, and prevention programs.
Visit HHS Vaccines
Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program
Provides free vaccines to children who are uninsured, Medicaid-eligible, or underinsured.
Visit VFC Program
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) – Vaccine Resources for Families
Trusted pediatric vaccine schedules, FAQs, and recommendations for child immunization.
Visit AAP
Latino Community Foundation
Unites Latinos in California to promote civic engagement, economic empowerment, and health equity.
Bilingual/Spanish-Language Resources
CDC – Resources in Spanish (Recursos en Español)
Health information, disease prevention tips, and vaccine facts in Spanish.
Visit CDC Spanish Resources
MedlinePlus – Health Information in Spanish (Información de Salud en Español)
Reliable, easy-to-read health information on diseases, medications, and vaccines.
Visit MedlinePlus (Spanish)
National Center for Farmworker Health – Infectious Disease Hub
Bilingual materials for migrant and farmworker families on disease prevention and health resources.
Visit NCFH
Vaccinate Your Family – Spanish Vaccine Resources
Trusted Spanish-language vaccine information, immunization schedules, and fact sheets.
Visit VYF Resources
Vaccine Resource Hub – Routine Vaccination Talking Points (English/Spanish)
Bilingual fact sheets and FAQs about the importance of routine childhood vaccines.
Visit Vaccine Resource Hub
Family Support & Health Hotlines
National Hispanic Family Health Helpline (Su Familia)
Bilingual health advice and referral services for Latino families across the U.S.
📞 1-866-Su-Familia (1-866-783-2645)
Visit Healthy Americas
2-1-1 Texas / National 2-1-1
Free, confidential health information and referral service connecting families to local health resources, clinics, and vaccination sites.
📞 Dial 2-1-1
Visit 211 Texas
State & Regional Vaccine Resources
Texas Department of State Health Services – Immunizations
State-specific immunization requirements, low-cost vaccine programs, and local vaccine providers.
Visit Texas Immunizations
Immunization Action Coalition (IAC)
Resources for families on vaccine schedules, safety, and preventing infectious diseases.
Visit IAC
Education & Mental Health Resources Related to Infectious Disease
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Bilingual fact sheets on managing stress during infectious disease outbreaks, with tips for caregivers and families.
Visit SAMHSA
HealthyChildren.org (from AAP)
Parent-friendly articles on how to talk to children about vaccines and infectious diseases.
Visit HealthyChildren.org
🌍 Additional Resources and Data for Partners
Here’s a comprehensive list of free, credible resources for partners that provide information on infectious diseases, vaccines, prevention, and health services—many of which offer Spanish-language or bilingual support.
National Resources and Data for Partners
National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA): A nonprofit association representing Hispanic physicians in the United States, dedicated to improving the health of Hispanic populations through advocacy, education, and research.
The socioeconomic consequences of COVID-19 for Latino families: An analysis of how the COVID-19 pandemic has created a socioeconomic crisis, negatively impacting Latino families in the United States.
Update: Coronavirus Case Rates and Death Rates for Latinos in the United States: A report providing updated statistics on COVID-19 case and death rates among Latinos, highlighting disparities compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
For U.S. Latinos, COVID-19 Has Taken a Personal and Financial Toll: An article discussing the personal and financial impacts of COVID-19 on U.S. Latinos, including higher infection rates and economic challenges.
Coronavirus and Latino Health Equity: An exploration of how the coronavirus pandemic has disproportionately affected Latinos and other people of color, exacerbating existing health inequities.
OMH- Hispanic/Latino Health: The Office of Minority Health provides information on health disparities affecting Hispanic/Latino populations and initiatives aimed at improving their health outcomes.
Key Data on Health and Health Care by Race and Ethnicity: A comprehensive collection of data examining health and healthcare disparities across different racial and ethnic groups, including Hispanics/Latinos.
Emerging Infectious Diseases: A journal by the CDC focusing on emerging infections and related health issues, providing research and information pertinent to various populations, including Latinos.
Health Inequity in the Hispanic/Latinx Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A study analyzing the health disparities faced by Hispanic/Latinx populations during the COVID-19 pandemic, discussing contributing factors and potential solutions.
References
Click here to review all relevant references:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
COVID-19 Data Tracker cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker
Office of Minority Health
Hispanic/Latino Health minorityhealth.hhs.gov
Kaiser Family Foundation
Key Data on Health and Health Care by Race and Ethnicity kff.org
Latino Policy and Politics Initiative
COVID-19 Impact on Latino Communities latino.ucla.edu
National Tuberculosis Controllers Association
TB Surveillance Data and Statistics tbcontrollers.org
Pew Research Center
Hispanic Americans’ Experiences with Health Care pewresearch.org
The Commonwealth Fund
Health Care Disparities and COVID-19 commonwealthfund.org
UChicago Medicine AdventHealth
Chronic Disease Disparities Among Latino Communities uchicagomedicine.org
National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
Emerging Infectious Diseases nfid.org
Vaccinate Your Family
Vaccine Resources and Educational Materials vaccinateyourfamily.org
Brookings Institution
The Socioeconomic Consequences of COVID-19 for Latino Families brookings.edu
Salud America!
Coronavirus and Latino Health Equity salud-america.org
MedlinePlus
Health Information in Spanish medlineplus.gov/spanish
American Academy of Pediatrics
Vaccine Resources for Families aap.org
National Hispanic Family Health Helpline
Health Helpline for Latino Families healthyamericas.org/help-line
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
Vaccines and Immunizations hhs.gov/vaccines
National Center for Farmworker Health
Infectious Disease Hub ncfh.org
National Bureau of Economic Research
Impact of Medicaid Expansion on Mortality Rates nber.org
Springer Link
Fear of Immigration Enforcement and Health Care Access link.springer.com
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Resources for Families During Infectious Disease Outbreaks samhsa.gov
Oxford Academic
COVID-19 Case Rates and Disparities academic.oup.com
BMC Public Health
Healthcare Access and Disparities in Latino Communities bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com
PMC
Vaccination Rates and Barriers in Latino Communities ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc
Contagion Live
Language Barriers in Health Communication contagionlive.com
Journal of Infectious Diseases
Workplace Exposure and Health Risks academic.oup.com/jid
Online Journal of Issues in Nursing
Overcrowded Living Conditions and Health Disparities nursingworld.org
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Health Inequity in Hispanic/Latinx Populations During COVID-19 mdpi.com