Recent reports indicate that the B.1.1.7 COVID-19 variant is spreading more rapidly among children than earlier strains, raising concerns among parents. Fortunately, studies suggest that while this variant—first identified in the United Kingdom—leads to higher infection rates in kids, it does not result in more severe illness compared to previous variants.
According to Boston Children’s Hospital, the majority of young individuals infected with the B.1.1.7 variant have experienced mild symptoms or none at all. Furthermore, there appears to be no significant difference in disease severity when compared to older COVID-19 variants. Notably, this variant does not seem to increase the risk of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) or other serious health issues.
Dr. Lucas Bennett, an infectious diseases expert at the University of California, San Francisco, emphasized that there is no evidence of heightened severity of illness in those under 18. In fact, data shows a decrease in pediatric hospitalizations from January to April 2021.
Research suggests that the B.1.1.7 variant possesses a mutation that enhances its ability to bind to human cells, making it easier to cause infections. However, experts are still investigating why children appear more susceptible to this strain. One theory posits that kids have fewer ACE-2 receptors—where the virus attaches to cells—allowing the more robust attachment of the new variant to still cause infection.
While it’s reassuring that children aren’t experiencing severe symptoms from this new variant, the increased infection rate is concerning. Children who contract the virus can potentially spread it to parents or grandparents, who may face more serious health outcomes.
Amid the return to in-person schooling and reduced social distancing measures, it is crucial for adults, particularly parents living with children, to get vaccinated. This step is essential to protect themselves and their families from this highly contagious virus.
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