The novel Coronavirus has likely created an indelible mark on the global economy. But understanding how it has affected industries and occupations remains somewhat elusive, although more clarity is revealed daily, according to Jeremy Hill, director of Wichita State University’s Center for Economic Development and Business Research (CEDBR).

From the start of the global pandemic, health experts warned about public gathering places. Those same warnings gave rise to the now infamous phrase – “social distancing.”

As public health experts warned about highly trafficked areas, and states implemented stay-at-home orders, the manual service sectors that require face-to-face interactions were the first to see the economic ramifications, Hill says.

Following are the top 10 hardest-hit sectors:

• accommodations
• air transportation
• entertainment venues
• food services
• museums
• performing arts
• personal care services
• sightseeing transportation
• temporary help services
• travel arrangements services

The CEDBR has created three visualizations to help policymakers, businesses and economic developers across the nation understand the level of economic vulnerability, broken out by state and industry.

The customizable infographics allow for in-depth comparisons. Each tool identifies not only the total number of jobs and wages, but also the level of concentration within each state.

To see and customize the economic impact of COVID-19 in your area, go to: /about/public_information/wsu_topics/topicscovid-19/covid-19-research.php.

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