Will the third wave of COVID prove more dangerous for kids?
The second wave of coronavirus has been devastating for everyone. Not only has it impacted the lives of adults, but it has taken a physical and a mental toll on children as well. But while many claim that children are the worst hit amongst the population, experts have denied these claims and said that the second wave has impacted everyone equally.
Now, with the speculation of a possible third wave, parents are worried and anxious about the risk it could pose to their children. While it is extremely important to stay prepared, it is also crucial that you steer clear of any misinformation that might ruin your peace of mind.
Read more: COVID-19: Will the third wave of coronavirus be more challenging for kids?
The third wave of coronavirus: Will it be worse for kids?
Given the increased rate of COVID-19 infection amongst kids and the unavailability of vaccines, parents have entered a state of panic and chaos regarding the safety of their children. The pediatrics association has come to the forefront and have advised parents to not be scared of the virus as it may not have any serious impact on kids.
Recently, AIIMS Director Dr. Randeep Guleria cleared the air by stating that while it has been said children will be infected the most during the third COVID-19 wave, there has been no solid evidence to prove the same.
According to the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), although children remain prone to infection, it is “highly unlikely that the third wave will predominantly or exclusively affect children”. Additionally, there has been no evidence to suggest whether the children who contract COVID-19 will have any serious complications.
In order to help you avoid any form of misinformation and unsupported claims, here are some myths about how the third wave will impact your kid, which you must avoid.
Myth: Kids immunity is frail, they won’t be able to fight COVID
As per the data, provided by IAP, almost 90 per cent of the COVID infections in children so far has been mild or asymptomatic. In an advisory, the IAP said, “The most important reason is the lesser expression of specific receptors to which this virus binds to enter the host, and also their immune system. A very small percentage of infected children may develop moderate-severe disease. If there is a massive increase in the overall numbers of infected individuals, a large number of children with moderate-severe disease may be seen… Children are as susceptible as adults and older individuals to develop infection, but not severe disease. It is highly unlikely that the third wave will predominantly or exclusively affect children.” This shows how children have a better chance of fighting the virus than their adult counterparts.
Myth: New variants are predominantly affecting the children
COVID-19 or the new variants do not differentiate between different age groups. It can impact anyone. While the second wave of coronavirus is attributed to various factors including a cocktail of variants, there has been no evidence to support whether it affects children more or increases their risk of hospitalisation. As per doctors, the rate of COVID infection in kids is high because the prevalence is high. It is not because the virus or the variants impacts children more.
Myth: COVID isn’t impacting kids mentally and emotionally
For a long time, mental health issues in children have been deeply ignored. Even in today's time, when the world is grappling with traumatic experiences, children's mental well being is being sidelined. If you believe COVID isn't impacting kids mentally and emotionally, then it is untrue. While unlike adults, children may lack the ability to express, they also bear the psychological ills of the pandemic.
Read more: Coronavirus: What to do if your child tests positive for COVID-19
How to protect children?
Besides educating our children about the pandemic, ask them to follow all the precautionary measures. Encourage them to stay indoors and avoid having visitors at home. Given that the virus spares no one, do not send your kids outdoors to play, rather organize fun indoor games that might keep them distracted. Make sure your child wears a mask whenever he or she has company and visits crowded areas.
Frequent washing of hands and sanitizing before touching your eyes, nose and mouth is crucial during such times. If left unattended, children may touch contaminated or infected surfaces and objects, which may lead to an infection. To avoid that make sure your children wash their hands regularly.