An 11-month-old baby girl diagnosed with COVID-19 had to be airlifted 150 miles after being denied admission at local hospitals due to a lack of pediatric beds. The alarming rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations is creating severe strains on healthcare systems across the nation, leading to heartbreaking situations like this one in Houston.
Amanda Callaway, a representative of the Harris Health System, reported that the baby was experiencing seizures and required intubation. However, the initial hospital lacked pediatric services. As staff searched for a suitable facility nearby, they discovered that major pediatric hospitals in the area were fully occupied. Eventually, the baby was transferred to a hospital with available capacity, where she is now reported to be in stable condition and has been taken off the breathing machine.
Dr. Dominic Lucia, a pediatric emergency physician at Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center — Temple, stated that the current surge is primarily driven by the Delta variant, which is affecting younger populations, including infants. He highlighted the increased number of symptomatic cases in children and the need for critical care, which is not typically common.
The surge in COVID-19 cases is particularly concerning in regions with low vaccination rates. One social media user expressed frustration, pointing out the severe consequences of unvaccinated individuals, particularly on vulnerable children who cannot yet receive vaccines.
In response to the alarming situation, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has refrained from implementing a statewide mask mandate, advocating for personal responsibility among citizens. Dr. Lucia emphasized the importance of vaccination, especially as schools prepare to reopen, urging adherence to guidelines, including mask-wearing.
As the nation grapples with this crisis, there is hope that collective efforts can help mitigate the spread of the Delta variant. For additional insights on related topics, check out one of our other blog posts here, and for further information on home insemination, visit this excellent resource.
Summary
An 11-month-old girl with COVID-19 had to be airlifted 150 miles due to a shortage of pediatric beds in Houston. As hospitals struggle with rising cases driven by the Delta variant, many children are being hospitalized, prompting urgent calls for increased vaccinations and safety measures.
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