Occupational risk prevention, education and support in black, Asian and ethnic minority health worker in the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The onset of the COVID-19 in the UK has resulted in an inordinate amount of deaths affecting Black, Asian and Ethnic Minority (BAME) healthcare workers. The occupational risk to this group is thought to be a contributory factor, but other factors include race, genetics, medical co-morbidities, socio-economic status, and access to personal protection equipment. Why COVID-19 appears to be more deadly in BAME members remains unknown, but the UK government is investigating this now. It does appear that certain factors may worsen the disease process in BAME members, but which ones are pertinent to prevention remain to be determined, until a vaccine is available. Thus, the onus should rest on risk prevention, education, and support for all. Some of the safety strategies that may be instituted to help guide those in the workplace include education, treating potential therapeutic targets and ensuring protection in the working environment. The consideration of a compensation scheme, for families of healthcare workers that have suffered because of COVID-19, would go some way to support the recovery process.