Document Type : Letter to Editor
Authors
1 Pathogens and Vectors Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
2 Medical Entomology and Vector Control Department, School of Public Health, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
3 Food and Beverages Safety Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
Abstract
COVID-19 can spread through human-to-human contact, and its progression occurs more frequently in people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, metabolic, cardiovascular, and other respiratory disorders. To date, this devastating pandemic has resulted in millions of cases and fatalities. Socioeconomic disparities have a significant impact on an individual's susceptibility and exposure to COVID-19. In the absence of effective treatments or immunization, an individual's risk of contracting respiratory tract infections is primarily heightened by their inability to maintain social distancing. This is due to limited access to potable water and overcrowded living conditions, which impede the ability to maintain a safe distance. Additionally, individuals engaged in informal occupations may be disproportionately affected by the pandemic due to reduced income resulting from business closures. Furthermore, COVID-19 vulnerability is influenced by chronic issues that stem from socioeconomic inequalities, such as household income, employment, education level, and welfare. These factors disproportionately affect certain socio-economic groups, including women, minorities, and immigrants. In summary, several factors, including comorbidities associated with poverty, increased exposure to the virus, and impaired access to healthcare, make economically disadvantaged individuals more susceptible to COVID-19. The pandemic has brought to light the inequalities within society and may exacerbate them. Policymakers must quickly identify individuals with multiple comorbidities to increase social welfare and alleviate their economic vulnerabilities.
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