COVID-19 cases among children have dramatically increased since early July, coinciding with the start of the new school year across much of the United States. According to a report released by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), there has been a staggering rise in child COVID infections, with 243,373 new cases recorded last week. While this figure is slightly lower than the previous week’s total of 251,781, it still represents an alarming 240% increase from the 71,726 cases reported at the beginning of July. The AAP noted, “After a decline in early summer, child cases have surged, with nearly 500,000 infections documented in the past two weeks.”
As of this week, only 63% of Americans aged 12 and older are fully vaccinated against the virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health experts are urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated to protect children under 12 who are not yet able to receive the vaccine. Dr. Lisa Green, a public health expert, stated on CBS’ Face the Nation that vaccinations for younger children could potentially be authorized as early as late October. “The FDA indicates a decision will be made in weeks rather than months,” she mentioned.
However, the FDA has cautioned that children under 12 should not receive the vaccine until it has been officially approved for their age group. In their statement, they emphasized, “Children are not simply smaller adults, and pediatric vaccine trials must address unique considerations, such as optimal dosing and formulation variations.”
In the meantime, schools are adopting various COVID safety measures depending on state guidance. In states like Florida and Texas, governors have actively opposed mask mandates in schools, even as child COVID cases continue to rise, leading to school closures. For example, Florida Governor Sam Baker recently celebrated the court’s upholding of his mask mandate ban, despite reports that child COVID fatalities in the state have doubled since summer.
Teachers in Mississippi have voiced their desperation as 18,000 students tested positive for the virus in just one month. “There is no conversation about when we prioritize children’s health over economic concerns,” lamented a local educator, Karen Smith. “It seems like a question that Governor White is sidestepping, and it deeply worries me.”
Parents are hopeful for timely vaccine news for younger children, as they seek some respite during this prolonged pandemic. For more insights on navigating parenting during these challenging times, check out our other blog post here.
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In summary, the rise in COVID-19 cases among children highlights the urgent need for vaccinations and protective measures as schools navigate this challenging landscape. With potential vaccine availability on the horizon, parents remain hopeful for a safer environment for their children.