Impacts of COVID-19 on Indigenous Communities in Canada

Mini-Oral Presentation C2.19

Authors

  • Jocelyn Benji University of British Columbia
  • Gemma Tomasky University of British Columbia
  • Kai L. Kaufman University of British Columbia
  • Rosalin Miles University of British Columbia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.773

Keywords:

COVID-19, Canada, Indigenous, Physical Health, Health, Communities

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious and potentially deadly virus with growing research examining the mechanism of outbreak and community spread. It is commonly spread through respiratory droplets. This virus has caused a global pandemic declared on March 11, 2020, which has initiated and continues to cause negative health and wellness effects worldwide. This pandemic had led to a closure of social infrastructures, local businesses, and financial instability. Purpose: The purpose of this literature review was to explore the experiences and responses to COVID-19 for Indigenous communities in Canada, specifically looking at the physical health and wellness in these communities. Methods: A literature review was first conducted in March 2020, and was updated in June, 2021. Results: An infographic was created after a review of the literature. Many Indigenous communities in Canada experience the disproportional effects from historical and ongoing health pandemics due to factors such as social determinants of health, the effects of intergenerational trauma, and systemic racism. Indigenous communities have found strengths in community-led initiatives that focus on promoting overall spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. Conclusion: Indigenous communities in Canada are successfully persevering through the COVID-19 pandemic by maintaining culturally relevant connections with family-centered and land-based approaches to physical health and wellness that have been practiced for generations. Funding: Not applicable

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Benji, J., Tomasky, G., Kaufman, K., & Miles, R. (2021). Impacts of COVID-19 on Indigenous Communities in Canada: Mini-Oral Presentation C2.19. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.773

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