When the pandemic first hit in March 2020, many parents found solace in the belief that children were mostly safe from severe COVID-19 complications. Initially, it seemed that kids were largely spared from the worst effects of the virus.
However, we have since discovered that this notion may not be entirely accurate. While children typically recover better than adults, some may develop long-lasting symptoms, known as COVID longhaulers, and others are at risk for a rare but serious complication called MIS-C, which can lead to severe health issues or even death. Hospitalizations among children, whether they have pre-existing conditions or not, are becoming more common.
In Michigan, the current trend shows a significant rise in pediatric hospitalizations. By the end of March, cases among children soared by 133 percent compared to the previous month, with 49 kids hospitalized by April 12 due to confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases.
Dr. Mark Carter, a pediatric nephrologist at Michigan Children’s Hospital, noted, “We are currently experiencing the highest pediatric hospitalization rates seen throughout the pandemic.” Medically vulnerable children, in particular, are feeling the impact of this surge. Dr. Emily Chen, an emergency medicine physician at the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, stated, “We are noticing an increase in admissions among children with baseline health issues, such as asthma or diabetes, who are now testing positive for COVID.”
The Exact Cause of the Sharp Increase in Pediatric Cases Remains Unclear
Experts have some theories regarding the rise in pediatric cases.
Schools and Youth Sports May Be Contributing Factors
During the initial pandemic wave, Michigan enforced strict lockdowns, closing schools and suspending sports. This significantly limited children’s opportunities for social interaction. However, the current situation is different. While the governor has recommended that schools consider halting in-person classes for two weeks and urged sports leagues to pause, these measures are not mandatory. Consequently, the number of cases linked to schools and sports has risen. According to local reports, Michigan has seen a 77% increase in cases since mid-February, largely attributed to youth sports activities.
New COVID Variants Are Present in Michigan
Variants of the virus are spreading across the U.S., with the B.1.1.7 variant, first identified in the U.K., becoming the predominant source of new infections. Dr. Carter confirmed that Michigan has one of the highest rates of this variant. The B.1.1.7 variant is more transmissible, which likely contributes to the recent surge in pediatric cases. Some experts suggest that this variant may also be linked to more severe illness, although further research is necessary.
In the U.K., a surge driven by the B.1.1.7 variant led to a 30% increase in hospitalizations within just one week, prompting a national lockdown. While this surge did not necessarily result in more pediatric hospitalizations, there was a notable rise in MIS-C cases.
Potential Rise in MIS-C Cases in Michigan
As COVID-19 cases increase among young individuals, there are concerns about a corresponding rise in MIS-C cases at Michigan Children’s Hospital. Dr. Sarah Williams, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, explained, “With the growing number of cases, we anticipate that MIS-C cases may also rise.” MIS-C is a serious condition that can emerge weeks after a COVID infection, often affecting children who initially appear healthy.
Although MIS-C is rare and most cases are treatable, the long-term effects remain uncertain. Children diagnosed with MIS-C will likely require ongoing care from specialists. As of late March, Michigan had recorded 95 cases of MIS-C, with five fatalities.
Vaccination Can Help—If Adults Participate
Over 60% of Michigan residents aged 65 and older have received their vaccinations. However, children under 16 are currently ineligible for vaccination, and it may be some time before vaccines are approved for younger age groups. This leaves children at risk for infection.
As a result, it is crucial for adults in the community to take measures to protect children. This includes wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and getting vaccinated when eligible. The less virus circulating in the community, the better it is for everyone.
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In summary, Michigan is witnessing a concerning increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations among children, particularly those with underlying health conditions. The rise has been linked to factors such as ongoing school and sports activities and the spread of more transmissible variants. As vaccination efforts continue for adults, it becomes imperative for the community to take protective measures to ensure the safety of children.