“We are forced to live in these conditions where we are basically on top of each other,” said Guzman. “There is no privacy.”
Almost everyone in the house took Covid-19. Guzman believes the infections started when his daughter attended a small dinner in June, after initial restrictions on the coronavirus were lifted. Mrs. Guzman suffered the worst of it and was hospitalized for nine days last summer. She needed supplemental oxygen for months later.
In wealthy, white neighborhoods, she said, people who get sick can easily isolate themselves and often have jobs that offer benefits and allow them to work from home. “We can’t do that,” she said. “We don’t have that luxury. And it says a lot about the inequality that exists and racism. This pandemic has made disparities even clearer. “
With so many people in the house, and so many getting sick and missing work, money was tight. Utility bills skyrocketed, as did food costs, as quarantined family members depended on delivery apps like Postmates.
“Fortunately, we had saved a little, but it’s all gone now,” she said.
And while Los Angeles officials analyze the daily beat of cases and deaths, looking for any signs that the increase is slowing, Rivera continues to hear the sirens.
With each ambulance that passes by, Mrs. Rivera pauses, wondering who is sick this time. The persistent effects of the virus include loss of smell and she is afraid of being infected again.
Before getting on the bus to work each morning, she says a short prayer, asking God to keep her safe.
But she doesn’t leave everything in God’s hands. For your protection, she always has extra masks, passing them on the bus to those in need.
Ana Facio-Krajcer contributed reports.