As the push for COVID-19 vaccinations continues across the United States, the CDC is calling on parents to ensure their teenagers receive the vaccine. This recommendation comes on the heels of a recent study revealing a rise in hospitalizations among adolescents due to COVID-19.
“I am quite alarmed by the increase in hospitalized teens and saddened to see those requiring intensive care or mechanical ventilation,” stated Dr. Janet Miller, CDC Director, in a recent announcement.
The CDC’s June 4 report, titled “Hospitalization of Adolescents Aged 12–17 Years with Laboratory-Confirmed COVID-19,” highlighted that hospitalizations surged in March and April. Among the over 200 youths who were hospitalized, nearly a third needed admission to intensive care units, and 5% required invasive mechanical ventilation. Approximately 70% had at least one underlying health condition, with obesity being the most common, while nearly 30% had no known health issues.
While no fatalities were reported, the CDC emphasized the necessity of ongoing COVID-19 prevention strategies, which include vaccination and proper mask usage for those not fully vaccinated.
“Much of this suffering can be avoided,” Dr. Miller remarked, encouraging parents and guardians to engage with their teens about the importance of COVID-19 safety measures and the benefits of vaccination.
Dr. Sarah Jenkins, a pediatric infection control specialist from City Hospital, explained, “If all adults were vaccinated, children wouldn’t need to be. However, since many adults remain unvaccinated, kids are left vulnerable, making vaccination essential.”
Although most COVID-19 hospitalizations occur among adults, severe cases can impact people of all ages. As the new study indicates, while hospitalization rates for those aged 65 and older have stabilized, the rates for younger individuals continue to rise, particularly in less vaccinated groups.
According to recent data from The New York Times, over 70% of Americans aged 65 and older are fully vaccinated, while the Pfizer vaccine was only recently authorized for those aged 12 and older.
“We need to vaccinate more teens to help us achieve herd immunity,” says Dr. Emily Hart, a pediatrician and head of the COVID-19 vaccine program at National Children’s Hospital. “It’s essential for parents to be informed and thoughtful about this decision.”
Dr. Miller affirmed that vaccination is crucial for overcoming the pandemic. “I see encouraging signs in the CDC’s data that we are approaching the end of this pandemic here. However, it’s vital that we all contribute by getting vaccinated.”
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In summary, the CDC is urging parents to vaccinate their teens following a troubling increase in hospitalizations due to COVID-19. With a significant portion of adults still unvaccinated, it is essential to protect children by encouraging vaccination and adhering to safety protocols.