The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated health disparities, disproportionately impacting Hispanic populations. Structural inequities, unfavorable social determinants of health (SDOH), and sociocultural values have all been found to be associated with higher COVID-19 transmission rates. To explore this further, we conducted a community-engaged, mixed methods study to examine how these factors influenced adherence to COVID-19 guidelines. Data was collected using an electronic survey and focus group (FG) discussions in Arizona, Florida, and the Midwest between March 2021 and November 2021. The survey (n = 1240), disseminated mainly through social media in English and Spanish, assessed COVID-19 vaccination, COVID-19 testing, and COVID-19 mitigation behaviors. FGs (n = 6) were conducted to explore pandemic-related challenges experienced by the Hispanic community. Odds ratios (ORs) adjusted for age, assigned sex, and education indicated that Hispanic individuals exhibited significantly greater vaccine uptake (OR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.42–2.12), but higher likelihood of contracting COVID-19 (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.26–1.84), lower likelihood of successfully quarantining (OR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.39–0.53), and less avoidance of large gatherings (OR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.62–0.86) than Non-Hispanic White individuals. FG participants discussed continuing in-person-only occupations throughout the pandemic and relying on social gatherings for mental well-being. The higher likelihood of contracting COVID-19 despite higher vaccination uptake indicates disparities affecting the Hispanic community, likely influenced by structurally limited remote work options and cultural values surrounding social gatherings. Offering supplemental resources that protect essential workers and crafting interventions that promote social connection are crucial to reducing health disparities in Hispanic communities.
Snipe et al. (Thu,) studied this question.