COVID-shaming is becoming a problem across the country. It's the stigma of contracting Coronavirus or even being tested but health professionals say it's dangerous to the entire community.
When 25 News talked to Central Texan Dustin Smith about his rural community's COVID response, he talked about the shame table.
"There are almost 200 people in Limestone County with COVID. But only 2 people that I know from Mexia have publicly stated they have COVID," he explains.
Smith says fear is driving people to not get tested or hide their diagnosis because of the stigma and possible economic consequences.
"I think it's vastly important that we speak up. That we speak out. That we let people know because otherwise how are we going to be properly supported," he said.
Texas A&M Central Texas Associate Professor Dr. Jeremy Berry says it impacts everyone if shame and blame continue.
"The shame dynamic puts a big obstacle in the health department's tracking. Having people not coming forward is a real problem," he said.
Previous research shows shaming can cause mental health issues down the line.
"If we're so focused on blaming and not supporting there are going to be a lot of people suffering from isolation, anxiety, depression. Even once the storm of this pandemic is calmed," said Dr. Berry.
It's especially important to avoid shaming children as they return to school and may have to quarantine because of exposure.
"When someone survives cancer that's what we say. You survived a deadly disease. We wrap praise and support and love around those people. It should be no different," said Dr. Berry.
The Mayo Clinic suggests you can fight COVID stigma by replacing fear with facts, speak up if you hear or see inaccurate statements, reach out to people who may feel stigmatized, and show support for health care workers, caregivers and essential workers.
