In 1-18 age bracket, max cases among 15-18-yr olds

Ludhiana: Majority of the Covid cases reported from among children and teenagers in the district this year were in 15-18 age group. The paediatric data compiled by the health department shows 2,702 cases were reported here from 1-18 age bracket from January 1 to April 15. Of these, the maximum of 1,203 cases (44.5%) were among 15-18 years olds.

The second highest cases of 630 (23.32%) were among 11-14 age group. As many as 539 cases (19.9%) were logged in 6-10 age group. The lowest case number of 330 (12.2%) was among kids aged 1 to 5.A health department official said, “We maintain case data of various groups and share it with the state health department, so that a plan is chalked out to check the disease.” The data shows that in the period, the total number of cases from all age groups in Ludhiana was 21,998. Of these, the number of cases among children and teenagers comprises 12.3%. “The percentage of 12.3 is on the lower side. If we go by the pattern, the probable fourth wave is expected to be a mild one. As it is a viral infection, supportive therapy and monitoring are important. As children, especially 1-11 years olds, are not vaccinated, they need to take basic precautions like wear masks, maintain hand hygiene and social distancing,” said Dr Daljeet Singh,

DMCH

former principal and paediatrician. Experts said eligible children and teenagers should get vaccinated.“As the government is carrying out vaccination of 12-14 and 15-18 age group, they should come forward as it reduces severity of the disease and checks transmission. Those below 12 years of age who go to school should follow Covid rules, have a balanced diet and exercise for a better immunity,” said Dr

Naveen Bajaj

, a child specialist.The civil surgeon was not available for comments.The vaccination data shows that of the target of 1,09,086 in 12-14 bracket, 34,645 have got the first dose and 475 the second. Of the 1,78,952 eligible persons in 14-17 age group, 1,13,107 have got the first jab and 42,175 the second.