"The answer is yes": Fauci says he considers institutional racism to be a contributing factor to the disproportionate coronavirus death toll for black Americans https://t.co/ucYEPg3Uc3 pic.twitter.com/8FkeIGr0w8
— CBS News (@CBSNews) June 23, 2020
Per Fauci’s comments, occupations held by many minorities don’t allow for work via computers or telework.
The doctor didn’t cite any data to support these claims; however, he did note that pre-existing health issues in black communities are also contributing factors in higher rates of COVID-19 transmission. Some health issues cited by Fauci included hypertension, obesity, and diabetes.
Testing for coronavirus in America
Additional remarks made before the House Energy and Commerce Committee pertained to COVID-19 testing. During his commentary, Fauci stated that America must continue to increase testing for coronavirus.
In stating that “more testing, not less” will follow, the doctor also expressed support for higher levels of contact tracing. Contact tracing is a common form of monitoring and finding individuals who may have come into contact with coronavirus-positive individuals.
In Fauci’s own words:
“I know for sure, and to my knowledge, none of us [were] told to slow down on testing. That just is a fact. In fact, we will be doing more testing.”
