INSIGHT FROM THE CDC on how to reduce stigma in your community:
Fear and anxiety about a disease can lead to social stigma, which is negative attitudes and beliefs toward people, places or things.
Stigma is associated with a lack of knowledge about how COVID-19 spreads, a need to blame someone, fear about disease and death, and gossip that spreads rumors and myths.
No single person or group of people are more likely than others to spread COVID-19.
Stigma can lead to labeling, stereotyping, discrimination, and other negative behaviors toward others.
Stigma hurts everyone by creating more fear and anger toward ordinary people instead of focusing on the disease that is causing the problem.
Stigma can also make people more likely to hide symptoms or illness, keep them from seeking medical attention.
Stigma can make it more difficult to control the spread of an outbreak.
We must learn to accept the different cultures surrounding us and unite as a community to avoid discrimination and hate.
Speak out against negative behavior and statements, and use your voice to reduce misinformation and stereotyping.