Testing rate by race and ethnicity
Testing rates let us compare how much testing is being done among race/ethnic groups of different sizes. Groups with higher rates have more tests done per 1,000 residents. Rates allow us to compare groups of different sizes, including different race and ethnicity groups.
Test positivity rate by race and ethnicity
The test positivity rate is the percentage of tests that are positive for COVID-19. This rate shows how common COVID-19 is for a given group. This page shows the positivity rate for each race or ethnicity group. When there are less than 20 positive tests for a group in any month, the test positivity rate is less reliable. This is most common in the groups with the smallest number of residents.
COVID-19 harm and structural racism
COVID-19 has harmed communities of color more than other groups.
Structural racism is tied to health inequities. An example of this association is discriminatory housing policies. Policies like urban renewal and redlining led to racial segregation. These policies also led to disparities in home ownership and home values. Such policies create unequal access to healthcare facilities where COVID-19 testing often takes places. Lack of equal employment opportunities also impact testing access.
Increasing testing in communities most harmed
Communities with high positivity rates and low testing rates are a top priority. We are working to increase testing in these communities.
City strategies
We partner with communities to create testing events. These include alternate test sites and “pop up” sites. We also work together to make multicultural outreach and media for all residents in the City. If you want to read more about testing resources in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino, go to the COVID-19 testing options page on SF.gov. We also work with private health care providers to make sure everyone has access to testing resources. We continue to use data and community feedback to improve our work.