Arushi Bidhuri
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Written By: Arushi Bidhuri | Updated : August 11, 2021 12:59 PM IST
During the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, there were speculations that the third wave will infect more children. As the virus continues to evolve and mutate, it is believed that the third wave of Covid will be equally disastrous. Recently, it has been reported that the Covid cases among children in the United States are increasing. The fear seems to come to reality and affect one of the biggest nations of the world.
Covid-19 instances in children in the United States are increasing at an alarming rate, with over 94,000 cases identified last week and trends indicating a "continuing substantial increase". According to a report published by The American Academy of Pediatrics, children currently account for 15% of Covid-19 cases in the United States (AAP). The same set of figures appear to suggest that serious illness, hospitalisation, and death among children infected with the coronavirus are uncommon.
Only around 2% of all child Covid-19 cases needed hospitalisation in places where data was available. According to the AAP, just 0.00-0.03% of all child Covid-19 instances in states reporting ended in mortality. Nearly 60% of US children over the age of 12 have been completely vaccinated, and nearly 70% have had at least one shot at this time. Shots for children under the age of 12 have not yet been approved.
Pfizer obtained emergency use authorisation to vaccinate persons aged 12 and above; the Moderna and Janssen vaccines are only approved for those aged 18 and up. By October of this year, Pfizer is anticipated to file for emergency approval of its under -12 years injection. In the meanwhile, schools have begun reopening for the Fall semester.
Amid the rising Covid cases among US children, CDC warns people to follow protocols regardless of vaccination status. The CDC recommends that all children (age 2 and up), staff, instructors, and visitors to K-12 schools use universal indoor masking. Despite the fact that their ICU corridors are overcrowded, several state governors are ignoring the mandate.
The third wave, which is presently being discussed, alludes to a probable increase in national cases. After peaking on May 6, the number of daily Covid-19 cases has decreased, and the national curve presently appears to be on a downward trend. If there is a new surge after that, it will be regarded as the third wave if it lasts for a few weeks or months. Since some states are seeing an increase in the number of daily cases, it is advisable that states continue to practice protocol to avoid a local surge.
(with inputs from agencies)
