Corona 19/flu/RSV spreading trend centered on students
Booster shot vaccination rates under the age of 17 are lower than adults
There are no clear guidelines, and the wearing of masks varies
New York City Department of Education to close coronavirus control room
Parents’ anxiety is growing as the ‘Triple Demic’, in which Corona 19 and influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are prevalent at the same time, spreads around children and adolescents. As regulations are not strong once morest various respiratory infections, Korean parents want their children to wear masks at school. However, in most cases, wearing a mask is recommended, and the guidelines vary by region and school, raising complaints from parents.
According to the New York City Department of Health on the 21st, the spread of COVID-19 infection in the past month has been strong, especially among students. Teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 were infected with regarding 114 per 100,000 people a month ago, but as of the last 10 days, the number of infected people per 100,000 increased to 213. For children aged 5 to 12, the number of infections per 100,000 people was 73.84 a month ago, but recently increased to 145.54. Adults over the age of 35 are in contrast to the fact that the number of infected people increased and then peaked at the beginning of this month.
One of the reasons why children are particularly vulnerable is the low vaccination rate compared to adults. In New York City, the additional booster shot vaccination rate for children aged 5 to 17 is 16.1%, which is lower than the vaccination rate for adults aged 18 and older (47.7%).
There are many cases where year-end gatherings have been canceled due to the proliferation of children and youth. Lee Ye-jin (40) said, “She decided to have a year-end party with her alumni following a long time, but ended up canceling it because her friend’s children were not in good condition.”
However, COVID-19 guidelines for each region are different. Persake County, New Jersey, announced that starting on the 21st, masks must be worn at all public schools. Bergen County also has a ‘high’ spread of Corona 19, but masks are still optional. New York City recommended wearing a mask indoors, but it is not mandatory. The city’s education department also decided to close the situation room that identifies cases of the spread of Corona 19 in public schools and informs parents. Ms. Jung (46), a parent living in Bayside, Queens, said, “Even if I go to school with symptoms, no one checks, so most of the children in my class cough.” I see,” he said.
Reporter Kim Eun-byeol
