A recent spike in cases raised the total to at least 513,415, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children’s Hospital Association
The groups said 70,630 new child cases were reported from August 20 through September 3. This is a 16% increase in child cases over two weeks, bringing up the total to at least 513,415 cases, the groups said in their weekly report on pediatric coronavirus cases.
“A disproportionate number of cases are reported in Black and Hispanic children and in places where there is high poverty. We must work harder to address societal inequities that contribute to these disparities.”
Children represent nearly 10% of all reported cases in the US, according to the report. The child cases are likely underreported because the tally relies on state data that is inconsistently collected.
“Now we are heading into flu season. We must take this seriously and implement the public health measures we know can help,” O’Leary added.
“That includes wearing masks, avoiding large crowds, and maintaining social distance. In addition, it will be really important for everyone to get an influenza vaccine this year. These measures will help protect everyone, including children.”
Pediatricians say it’s more important than ever to make sure kids get either the flu shot or the protective nasal spray before the end of October.
That’s because having two respiratory disease circulating at the same time — flu and coronavirus — will be confusing to doctors, parents and caregivers. Plus, hospitals and clinics could become overwhelmed with the double burden.
Children with Covid-19 also tended to be older and have at least one underlying health condition.
