Live animal markets disproportionately affect which populations?

• A. Elderly
• B. Children
• C. Health care workers
• D. Minorities

Answer: (D)

Live animal markets create close, repeated contact with animals, animal products, and contaminated surfaces, which can spread zoonotic pathogens to people who frequent, work in, or live near these markets. The group most likely to bear a greater burden in this context is minorities, because social and economic factors often lead to higher exposure and greater vulnerability. Many minority communities live in dense urban areas where such markets are concentrated and may rely on them for livelihoods or affordable food, increasing their risk of contact with infected animals and contaminated environments. Language barriers, limited access to health information, and disparities in access to healthcare and preventive services can also lead to delays in detection and treatment, worsening outcomes. So, while everyone in the broader community can be affected, minorities are disproportionately impacted due to these structural factors that elevate exposure and limit protections.