Georgia COVID-19 Update: Deaths Exceed 500, African Americans Disproportionately Affected

ATLANTA, Ga. (CW69 News at 10) -- As of noon on April 14, the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) death toll reached 501, and the number of confirmed cases was 14,223. This is the latest data provided by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), which shows African Americans are disproportionately affected by the virus.

Of the 501 deaths, the DPH reports at least 248 are Black or African American. The race and ethnicity of 25 of the 501 people are currently listed as "unknown."

In terms of confirmed cases, the DPH update shows African Americans make up 2,580 out of the 14,223 cases. However, 7,948 of the confirmed cases are listed as "unknown" under race and ethnicity. Georgia's DPH just recently added a category for race data on its website. State officials have confirmed race and ethnicity data was not initially or consistently collected until recently, but will be going forward.

A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report shows the virus is disproportionately affecting African Americans around the country.

In addition, state officials have said confirmed cases and deaths will continue to increase until the pandemic reaches a peak. Governor Brian Kemp said in an April 13 press conference the peak date is constantly fluctuating, but at this time, it is estimated to take place on April 26.

Below is a breakdown of the cases by race and ethnicity in Georgia as of April 13, as reported by the DPH:

In:
• Atlanta