Photographer: Johnny Milano / Bloomberg
Photographer: Johnny Milano / Bloomberg
New York City broke its Covid-19 vaccine data by race for the first time, with the mayor highlighting a “deep problem” with racial inequality.
White residents made up nearly half of those who received at least one dose, despite being only a third of the population. Latinos, 29% of the city, made up only 15% of those vaccinated. The ratio was lowest among Black residents – even though they make up nearly a quarter of the city’s population, they made up only 11% of those vaccinated.
The percentage of Asians among all vaccine residents was at 15%, similar to their representation in the city.
Vaccine differentiation
White NYC residents receive an unprecedented number of Covid-19 vaccines
Vaccination data from the New York City Department of Health; Population data from the 2019 US Census
“Clearly, we see a big difference that needs to be addressed strongly and creatively,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said in a conference call on Sunday. “We have a big problem with mistrust and laziness, especially in color communities.”
In response, the city will now prioritize jobs for residents in the “working neighborhoods” – those with high Covid-19 mortality and morbidity rates, poverty and health inequalities – and allow with essential staff there arranging meetings for their relevant family members on -site. Jackson Heights and East Elmhurst are among the six neighborhoods added to the action area.
However, the data painted a limited picture so far, with 40% of those who received at least one dose of vaccines not having a description of race and ethnicity. The data is updated daily. Vaccine numbers also match inequality trends observed by earlier testing.
“Beneficiaries have been able to pass the test in some easier ways,” said de Blasio.
– Supported by Henry Goldman, and Shelly Banjo
(Updates with details of Activity Neighbors, adding card)