Title: Rising Covid-19 Hospitalizations in the US Highlight Concerns for Children and Seniors
In a worrying development, hospitalizations due to Covid-19 in the United States have been steadily increasing over the past few months. Recent data reveals that weekly admissions now exceed triple the numbers recorded just two months ago. The surge in hospitalizations is particularly concerning for seniors, who have the highest rates of Covid-19 hospitalizations. However, an alarming trend shows that hospitalizations among children, especially those under the age of 5, are rising at an alarming rate.
During the week ending September 9, over 20,500 individuals were admitted to hospitals across the nation due to Covid-19, representing an 8% increase from the previous week. While the White House acknowledges the uptick in infections and hospitalizations, officials maintain that current levels remain lower than those seen during previous waves of the virus.
National data indicates that over half of the new Covid-19 hospital admissions are among individuals aged 70 and older. Despite this, a recent analysis has revealed that hospitalizations among children are rising at a faster rate than the average, experiencing a five-fold increase in the past three months alone. Disturbingly, children under the age of 5 face the highest risk of hospitalization, accounting for approximately half of all pediatric Covid-19 hospital admissions.
One contributing factor to the rising hospitalizations among children and the elderly could be the lagging vaccination rates. Children have consistently experienced lower vaccination rates, with less than 1% of those under the age of 5 and less than 10% of children between the ages of 5 and 17 receiving the bivalent booster.
With the US heading into the respiratory virus season, health officials are urging caution. While Covid-19 remains the primary concern, there has been a noticeable increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) levels across most regions. Despite Covid-19 hospitalizations still being approximately half of last winter’s peak, CDC forecasting models predict a continued rise, potentially doubling by December.
In response, the Biden administration is intensifying its messaging on the importance of vaccinations for Covid-19, flu, and RSV, encouraging all Americans to get boosters and flu shots. Flu vaccines are already available, and for the first time, vaccines targeting RSV are accessible for individuals aged 60 and older.
Promisingly, updated Covid-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna are gradually being rolled out nationwide, with recommendations for everyone aged 6 months and older to receive them. Government officials emphasize the significance of employing multiple layers of protection, including vaccination, frequent handwashing, staying home when feeling unwell, wearing masks, and improving ventilation.
As the battle against Covid-19 continues, it is imperative for individuals of all age groups to stay informed and follow the recommended protocols to protect themselves and their loved ones.
