In a recent statement, a leading official from the FDA has expressed deep concern over the rising number of COVID-19 cases among children, labeling the fatalities as a national disgrace. Dr. Alan Smith highlighted that the current surge, particularly in southern states, has led to thousands of hospitalizations among kids. “It is unacceptable for any child to die from a vaccine-preventable disease in our country,” he emphasized during a town hall meeting held by the COVID-19 Vaccine Education and Equity Project.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 540 children have tragically lost their lives to the virus since the onset of the pandemic. Dr. Emily Roberts, a pediatrician from Dallas, stated, “The expectation should be zero deaths; we are failing as a society in protecting our most vulnerable.”
With tens of thousands of children still becoming infected weekly, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reported approximately 175,000 pediatric cases for the week ending September 30. Children now represent about 25% of all COVID-19 cases in the U.S. Currently, only those aged 12 and up are eligible for vaccination, and unfortunately, only around half of them have started their vaccination process, marking the lowest rate among age groups.
Vaccines for children aged 5 and older may receive authorization soon, but it is crucial for parents to ensure their children get vaccinated. Dr. Smith urged parents who may be hesitant about the vaccine: “No parent should have to endure the loss of a child to an illness that we can prevent. We will only authorize vaccines that meet our safety and efficacy standards.”
As vaccination becomes more widespread, states like California are implementing mandates for in-person students to be vaccinated, mirroring existing requirements for vaccines against diseases like measles and mumps. Governor Jane Doe stated, “Vaccines are effective, and we need to protect our children.”
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In summary, the FDA’s Dr. Alan Smith has called the deaths of children from COVID-19 an embarrassment, emphasizing the urgent need for vaccinations among young people. With current rates of infection and hospitalization rising, it’s critical for parents to take action and ensure their children are protected from this preventable illness.