Children ages 6-11 make most cases statewide – CBS Denver

DENVER (CBS4)– New data from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment shows Colorado is now among the top 15 states in the country for the highest seven-day COVID-19 incident. While Colorado was 41st two weeks ago, the state is now 14th, and the Department of Health said we could see another wave if we don’t slow the spread of the virus.

(credit: CBS)

CBS4 asked state officials why the cases were on the rise, and they weren’t exactly sure. Dr Rachel Herlihy, the state epidemiologist, said it could be due to several factors, such as seasonal climate changes and more people staying indoors, or simply younger children who are not eligible for the vaccine. Currently, children between the ages of 6 and 11 see the most cases in the state.

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“Anyone under the age of 12 is not vaccinated at this point, and these children are definitely more at risk now from COVID-19 and the pandemic than they have been since the start of this pandemic, ”Herlihy said.

Laura Anne-Cleveland, assistant head nurse at Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children, said that for children, it all starts at home.

“We are not done with COVID, as much as we want to be done, it is not over with us, so we have to be vigilant,” said Anne-Cleveland.

Anne-Cleveland said parents can take precautions by continuing to wear masks, respect social distancing and wash their hands frequently.

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“The peer pressure aspect, especially if there will be environments where they’re not needed, they can stand out if they wear masks, and being able to have those conversations with the kids is really, really important.” , said Anne -Cleveland.

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While children usually have milder symptoms, doctors find that children have long-term effects, and some are even put on ventilators. Anne-Cleveland said when the vaccine becomes available to young children, parents should act quickly to enroll their children.

“I don’t want to panic, but I think we need to understand that COVID affects children. This can be critical, especially if there is some kind of immunocompromised status for these children, ”said Anne-Cleveland. “When this vaccine becomes available, get vaccinated, it is safe, the latest clinical research shows how safe it is for children and that is important.”

CBS4 asked a representative from Gov. Jared Polis’ office if we are planning to close schools again due to the increase in cases among children.

(credit: Getty Images)

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A spokesperson sent this statement: “The state does not intend to close the schools. In-person learning is essential for the health, safety and well-being of students and families. We urge parents ages 12 to 17 to get their children immunized to protect them against COVID-19 and to minimize disruption to in-person learning. The state is working tirelessly to prepare for FDA approval of the vaccine for 5-11 year olds so that we can further protect our children and their access to learning. ”