Recent research from Israel has revealed that when parents get vaccinated against Covid-19, they not only protect themselves but also provide a layer of safety for their unvaccinated children. While it’s crucial for eligible kids to receive their Covid-19 vaccines—offering them the best protection available—some children still can’t get vaccinated. Thankfully, the findings from a new study published in the journal Science indicate that having two vaccinated parents can significantly reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading within the household.
Motivating Unvaccinated Adults
Now, this might not come as a surprise to many, but experts believe this information could motivate some of the 30 million unvaccinated adults in the U.S. to roll up their sleeves. “For those who are particularly focused on their children’s well-being, this could encourage them to get vaccinated,” noted Dr. Emily Foster, an infectious disease expert at a leading university.
Study Overview
The study, which involved Harvard Medical School, Ben Gurion University, and Clalit Research Institute, analyzed households with unvaccinated children under 16 from January to September 2021, prior to the widespread impact of the Omicron variant. During the Alpha variant surge from January to March, researchers found that having one vaccinated parent correlated with a 26% reduction in the risk of children getting infected. But with two vaccinated parents, that risk plummeted by around 72%!
When the Delta variant was prevalent between July and September 2021, having a boosted parent reduced the risk of household infection by 21%, and two boosted parents further lowered it by 58%. Additionally, if a vaccinated parent did contract the virus, their chance of transmitting it to their kids was much lower compared to unvaccinated parents.
The Indirect Effects of Vaccination
Past studies have also shown that children’s health during the pandemic often depends on the indirect effects of vaccination. Vaccinated parents are less likely to bring the virus home, thus reducing the risk of transmission to their children. While Covid-19 tends to be milder in kids, the potential for Long Covid and other health issues remains a concern.
Vaccination Rates Among Children
Since the CDC recommended the Pfizer vaccine for children aged 5-11 back in December, approximately 28.1% of kids in that age group have received at least one dose.
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Conclusion
In summary, parents’ Covid-19 vaccinations can significantly protect unvaccinated children from infection. This new insight could inspire more adults to get vaccinated, ensuring a healthier environment for their families.
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