As the more transmissible Delta variant spreads, the impact of COVID-19 on children has reached alarming levels. With those under 12 still ineligible for vaccination, the burden of viral transmission has fallen heavily on this age group. In early August, over 121,000 children tested positive for the virus in a single week.
According to the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the week ending August 8, 2021, saw this staggering number of child COVID-19 cases, which is more than 14 times the cases reported in the week ending June 24. The AAP further notes that this year, children are experiencing more severe effects from the virus compared to earlier phases of the pandemic. They reported that children accounted for 18% of weekly COVID-19 cases by mid-August, up from 14.4% since the pandemic started.
Experts are concerned that the situation may worsen as schools reopen without universal mask mandates. “Vaccines and masks are our best defenses, and for children under 12, masking is their only option,” said Dr. Lisa Johnson, a member of the vaccine advisory committee.
Recent reports highlight significant numbers of quarantined students. In New Orleans, 3,000 students and staff were placed in quarantine last week, while in Hillsborough County, Florida, over 5,599 students and 316 employees faced isolation due to COVID-19 exposure as of August 16.
While the AAP indicates that severe illness from COVID-19 is rare among children, they emphasize the need for more research into the potential long-term effects of mild cases, such as “long COVID.”
Vaccination has become more than just a personal decision; it’s a vital action to protect younger children who cannot yet receive the vaccine. For more insights on related topics, check out this post on home insemination and for expert advice, visit Intracervical Insemination. For those exploring pregnancy options, Cleveland Clinic’s podcast is an excellent resource.
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In summary, the rise in COVID-19 cases among children is concerning, especially as schools reopen without universal masking. Experts urge vaccination for those eligible to protect the vulnerable youth who remain unvaccinated.