CNN Health reported an increase in hospitalization among children aged under five for COVID-19 on January 8, 2022. The hospitals are coping and there is no panic. However do we need to be careful, because under-fives are not yet eligible for vaccination. A child hospitalization increase is a timely reminder to remain vigilant.
What We Know Now About the Child Hospitalization Increase
An average 4.3 children under five per 100,000, hospitalized with COVID during the week ending January 1, 2022. The figure for the previous week was 2.6, representing a 48% increase according to U.S. Centers for Disease Control. This is also the largest child hospitalization increase among this group since the pandemic began.
CDC director Dr. Rochelle Walensky commented when the news surfaced. ‘For our youngest children, those who are not yet eligible for vaccination it’s critically important. That we surround them with people who are vaccinated to provide them protection.’ However, this is not the only news concerning children under eighteen.
Hospital Admissions for Children Under Eighteen Increasing
New hospital admissions for children under eighteen with confirmed COVID are already at record levels according to CNN. That’s because U.S. Department of Health and Human Services data reveals these are running at 797 a day. This is the highest it has ever been, and it’s an 80% increase over the previous week.
‘I would say the best way to keep those children protected is to vaccinate them as they’re eligible. And surround them by siblings and parents who are vaccinated themselves,’ remarked Dr. Rochelle Walensky.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommends unvaccinated children with close contacts quarantine for at least five days. Adults without vaccines, including teachers and school staff should observe similar precautions according to CNN Health.
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