Reducing Stigma

Stigma is defined as "discrimination against an identifiable group of people, a place, or a nation." The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a new onslaught of stigma against certain populations such as racial and ethnic minorities or those who have gotten sick. Stigma can then turn into violence and denial of care, further negatively impacting vulnerable populations. This CDC webpage defines stigma and calls attention to certain groups that may face stigma during the COVID-19 pandemic and ways that community leaders can decrease stigma. Healthcare workers should be aware of the hardships that these populations may be facing and should work to inform others about the disease in order to quell stigmatization.