Andaman Tribes At High Risk Of COVID-19, Scientists Urge "High Priority Protection"

India is home to several indigenous and smaller communities including Andaman Islanders that have been living in isolation for tens of thousands of years.

A recent research has indicated that isolated populations of indigenous communities in India, like the Onge and Jarawa tribes on the Andaman Islands, are under serious threat from COVID-19. Scientists have recommended that the protection of these tribes should be given a high priority. Not doing so could threaten the existence of these indigenous tribes that have been living in isolation for tens of thousands of years.

The infection of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has impacted various ethnic groups all over the world. Recent studies suggest that the indigenous groups in Brazil have been badly hit by COVID-19.

The death rate among the indigenous communities of Brazil was nearly double the global rate. Many of the indigenous communities are on the verge of extinction due to the pandemic.

India is home to several indigenous and smaller communities including Andaman Islanders.