Coronacast Episode 05 – COVID-19 Poses a Threat to Native Americans; The Evolving Role of WHO in Pandemics

On this episode of Coronacast, Mikeala Sparks walks us through the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Native Americans. The Navajo Nation currently has the highest cases per capita in the US, and she explains how this crisis could be further exacerbated by an under-funded Indian Healthcare Service. Next, Chiamaka P. Ojiako traces the recent history of epidemics and pandemics, and the evolving role of the World Health Organization in crisis management. At the top of the episode, hosts Luisa and Rhea analyze this week’s COVID-19 milestones and the risks of reopening too soon.

TRANSCRIPT:

0:00: Welcome from hosts Rhea and Luisa

0:38: Top news of the week 

5:14: Mikeala Sparks on COVID-19 Poses a Threat to Native Americans

13:49 Chiamaka P. Ojiako on The evolving role of the World Health Organization in pandemics

 

News segment:

• US Coronavirus Updates – NYTimes
• Governor Cuomo Warns NY Residents of Breaking Violation, Aimed at Avoiding Second Wave
• Beijing Sees Fresh Coronavirus Cases
• India Reopens Even as Coronavirus Cases Rise
• Brazil Hits World’s Highest Death Toll, Bolsonaro Continues Reopening
• Dr. Fauci Corrects WHO Comment on Asymptomatic Spreaders of Coronavirus
• Trump Administration Erases Transgender Civil Rights Protections in Health Care

Resources and information about the Native American population:

• Population map by Mikeala Sparks
• Native Philanthropy Organization – Resource Center
• Native Partnership Organization
• National Congress of American Indians