In households around the globe today, one emotion is shared widely: fear. If you’re anxious about sending your children back to school, that’s completely understandable. If you’re hesitant to travel to visit loved ones, you’re not alone. Many parents are also reluctant to resume playdates or host gatherings. However, some risks must not be overlooked, even amid our fears. One crucial concern is the potential neglect of vaccinations and well-visits with our pediatricians.
A concerning report from the CDC indicates that children nationwide are falling behind in their vaccination schedules during the COVID-19 pandemic. This lapse exposes them to diseases that may be just as dangerous, if not more so, than the virus keeping them at home. The beginning of 2020 was already unstable concerning vaccination rates, partly due to the ongoing challenges posed by the misinformation spread by the anti-vaccine movement. For example, Washington state has reported recent outbreaks of diseases like measles, which we had previously controlled.
In addition to the misinformation, many parents are too frightened to take their children to routine doctor visits or vaccinations. Some are strictly adhering to stay-at-home orders, only leaving the house for essential needs. This fear is legitimate; we are all navigating uncharted waters. Yet, healthcare professionals are urging parents to view well-visits and vaccinations as essential, just like hand-washing and wearing masks.
It is vital to protect our children from all harmful contagious diseases. According to CNN Health, Michigan has seen a 22% decline in non-flu vaccine doses administered to children since the national emergency was declared. For children under two, the decrease was about 16%. The CDC notes that from mid-March to mid-April, there was a significant drop in orders for routine vaccinations compared to the previous year, indicating a nationwide trend.
Doctors are genuinely concerned about the implications of these declines. Dr. Laura Martinez, a pediatrician and member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Infectious Diseases, highlighted how alarming these statistics are, especially considering the potential for outbreaks. AAP President Dr. Claire Johnson has also called these findings “deeply alarming” and emphasizes the importance of scheduling visits to catch up on immunizations.
Routine well-checks do more than administer vaccines; they are crucial for assessing overall health, including developmental screenings and physical exams. Dr. Johnson points out that children missing these appointments are at risk for various health issues.
To facilitate these necessary visits during the pandemic, pediatricians are implementing strategies to ensure safety, such as scheduling well and sick visits at different times and enhancing sanitation measures in their offices. The AAP encourages healthcare providers to communicate these protocols to families to alleviate their fears about visiting the doctor.
Dr. Martinez reassures parents that medical offices have taken extensive precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, making them safe places to visit. As restrictions ease and families begin to venture out, it is critical that children remain protected from contagious diseases. The CDC emphasizes that vaccinating children against serious vaccine-preventable diseases is essential, even amid the ongoing pandemic.
As we wait for advancements in COVID-19 vaccines, we must be proactive in safeguarding our children’s health. Dr. Johnson encourages everyone to remember that there are other dangers beyond COVID-19 that we must address.
In conclusion, while the pandemic presents challenges, it is vital to prioritize vaccinations and well-checks to protect our children from preventable diseases. For more information on how to navigate these concerns, check out this resource on insemination and family planning. Additionally, you can explore American values in parenting and healthcare decisions.
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased fear among parents, causing many to delay essential vaccinations and pediatric visits for their children. This trend poses a serious risk as children become vulnerable to preventable diseases. Healthcare professionals are urging families to prioritize vaccinations and well-checks to ensure children’s health and safety during these challenging times.