The issue of labeling diseases by their geographic origins, such as referring to COVID-19 as the “China Virus,” has serious repercussions. Such terminology not only promotes racism but also incites violence against specific communities. Following the use of this term by various public figures, there was a notable rise in hate crimes targeting individuals of East Asian descent. The pandemic itself is a source of anxiety, and the added violence against Asian communities is simply unacceptable.
In the U.S., reports indicate a staggering 150% increase in hate crimes against Asians since March 2020, particularly in cities like New York and Los Angeles. This alarming trend can be traced back to inflammatory language that perpetuates a harmful narrative. The scientific community, too, has contributed to this issue by labeling COVID-19 variants after the regions they were first identified in, such as the “Brazilian strain” or “African variant.” This type of naming can unconsciously lead individuals to associate blame with entire ethnic groups, further fueling existing prejudices.
Our brains naturally take shortcuts when processing information, which can lead to unconscious biases. When we repeatedly hear terms like “China virus,” it can trigger latent biases and foster a negative perception of entire communities, falsely suggesting that they are to blame for the pandemic. In reality, the coronavirus does not discriminate based on ethnicity or nationality, and we must not do so either.
In a society that has long ignored the impact of racism, the rhetoric surrounding COVID-19 has forced many to confront these issues. If we are to dismantle the stigma associated with the virus, we must be vigilant about the language we use. It is crucial to refer to the virus by its scientific name, SARS-CoV-2, rather than by its geographic origin.
A poignant example comes from a student named Alex Chen, who was attacked while walking in London. The assailants shouted that they did not want the virus in their country. Chen later shared on social media, “Racism is not ignorance — it’s hatred.” He emphasized that racists will always find excuses to justify their actions, and the pandemic has sadly provided them with yet another opportunity.
To combat the harmful stigma surrounding COVID-19, we must use precise language. Let us refer to the virus for what it truly is: a disease that knows no boundaries or ethnicities.
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Summary:
Using terms like “Chinavirus” perpetuates racism and incites violence against specific communities, particularly those of East Asian descent. The rise in hate crimes related to COVID-19 is alarming, and the scientific community’s use of geographic labels reinforces harmful stereotypes. It is essential to use accurate terminology and recognize that the virus affects everyone equally, regardless of ethnicity.