COVID-19 Report

A Race to Close the Disproportionate COVID-19 Death Rates in Minnesota’s Asian Community

The COVID-19 pandemic is negatively and disproportionately impacting Asian Minnesotans who have higher rates of infection and mortality. When data is disaggregated, the Hmong, Karen and Karenni are more impacted than other Asian ethnic groups. This trend is consistent and persistent among various Asian ethnic communities. It brings to light the need for further disaggregated data to better inform targeted strategies to reduce the racial and ethnic COVID-19 disparities. 

Overall Asian Minnesotans make up 5% of the population, yet they
represent 6% of all COVID-19 hospitalizations and 8% of COVID-19
ICU cases
. This data is even more glaring when we disaggregate
the information at the local level.

110

110 of the 223
COVID deaths
were from
the Hmong
community

29%

While other infectious and
chronic diseases continue to
impact the health and lives
of Minnesotans, COVID-19
was the leading cause of
death in Hmong, Karen, and
Karenni communities in 2020
at 29% compared to 11% in
White Minnesotans.

Our Recommendations

Scale up the collection and use of disaggregated data to understand COVID infections, vaccinations, and longer-term impact.

Provide language and technology access and
cultural competence across the spectrum of
healthcare.

Direct resources to community-based groups and organizations to serve as providers, navigators, and bridgers for vulnerable communities.

Ensure that recovery solutions and programs meet the needs of Asian Minnesotan communities and are inclusive of cultural practices and experiences.

Provide support to address anti-Asian violence, discrimination and hate.