CDC data shows higher COVID-19 mortality rate for American Indians, Alaska Natives

A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analysis based on 14 states found that the cumulative incidence of lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases among American Indian and Alaska Native persons was 3.5 times higher than among white persons, underscoring the need to develop collaborative approaches with federal, state, municipal and tribal agencies to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on these communities.

Although COVID-19 mortality rates increased with age among both American Indian/Alaska Native and white persons, the disparity was largest among those aged 20-49. CDC said the study can help public health partners plan for medical countermeasures and prevention activities for these two populations.