Each year, hundreds of thousands of immigrants arrive at the U.S. southern border, a phenomenon that escalated to unprecedented levels last December. This influx has significantly impacted the most affected states, causing widespread concern. Recent studies highlight not just the economic consequences but also the potential strain on healthcare systems, as a considerable number of immigrants arrive with various health issues.
The Texas border crisis
In December, Texas recorded an all-time high in migrant arrivals, seeking entry into the U.S. Since January, these numbers have significantly decreased, attributed to the decisive actions of Texas leadership. Through “Operation Lone Star” and assistance from other Republican-led states providing additional forces, Texas has made substantial efforts to fortify its border. Despite these efforts, Texas continues to face a substantial migrant presence.
Immigration challenges in California
With entry via Texas becoming increasingly challenging, migrants have redirected their routes, favoring Arizona and, notably, California. This shift has placed a heavy burden on California’s border cities, which are now calling for state and federal intervention. The recent surge in migrant numbers has led to the exhaustion of resources, exemplified by the closure of a migrant shelter in San Diego due to financial constraints. Additionally, the health care system is under severe pressure, struggling to cope with injuries sustained from attempts to cross the border wall.
Biden admin’s open border policy is a serious threat to America
The administration of President Joe Biden and the federal government face ongoing criticism for the substantial influx of migrants entering the United States. Critics argue that sufficient measures to secure the border have been lacking since President Biden took over the White House office. And now, President Joe Biden is additionally accused that he is illegally importing more than just migrants into the country.
Syphilis among migrants
Nonprofit organizations in Mexico and Guatemala have reported concerning rates of syphilis among the groups of migrants moving towards the U.S. southern border. A spokesperson from one of these organizations expressed relief at not having detected HIV cases among the migrants. “Thank God, we have not detected HIV,” one organization head said as reported by the Examiner.
Almost a third of the migrants affected
These groups have been conducting health screenings for migrants passing through the Tapachula border station between Mexico and Guatemala. Findings reveal that approximately 30% of these individuals are affected by various STDs. Notably, a significant proportion of those diagnosed with STDs are of Cuban origin.
Young people coming into the U.S. with diseases
A lot of people moving towards the border are getting sick with diseases that spread from one person to another during close contact. It’s worrying because many of these people trying to get into the United States without permission are young, often at the age when they could be in the military.
Tough journeys
Keeping clean isn’t really something these travelers focus on while they’re on their tough journey. This makes it much easier for them to get sick. By the time they get to the border with America, many have caught different illnesses because they’re exhausted, haven’t taken care of themselves, or for other reasons.
Impossible to check all the migrants at the border
The problem gets bigger because there are so many people trying to cross the border. It’s almost impossible to check each one for health problems or even to know who they are, as a lot of them throw away their IDs during their trip. Experts are further worried because the rules have let a lot of people in, and some might have diseases that can spread to others, infecting more Americans and putting additional pressure on the health system.
Growing concerns
There have been cases where Americans were harmed by immigrants here illegally, sparking a lot of public outcry and opposition to the current government’s policies, which are seen as too lenient on immigration. These policies not only risk the health of Americans but also put the migrants in danger, as they rush to enter the U.S. The criticism is that the administration doesn’t seem to mind the risks, focusing instead on political gains.
