Returning To School During The COVID-19 Pandemic
While many students are being taught remotely through computer technology, others are attending school in person at least part-time. School systems, parents, and guardians are navigating a situation that is largely unknown. It is understandable that this situation is causing stress.
In a study from Japan, only 7.3 % of male children and 3.8% of female children contracted the virus compared to 22% of adults in their 50s. Another study that took place in China found that the virus rate of children was at 5.3% while the adult rate was at 12.6%. Second, early studies are showing that the percentage of children that have the virus is low. In the Netherlands, community serology testing which is testing for COVID-19 antibodies has found that 4.2% of adults presented with antibodies while only 2% of humans under 20 presented with antibodies. Vo, Italy tested 85% of their community. The infection rate of adults was 2.6% while the infection rate of children remained at 0%.
While the exposure and infection rate appears to be lower in children, safe practices must still be employed. The following practices should be put in place:
● Remind children to wash their hands. COVID-19 is spread by droplet and contact transmission. The World Health Organization recommends washing your hands with soap and water prior to eating, when you have sneezed or coughed, and after you have used the bathroom.
● Social Distance is required. Both the CDC and the AAP recommend that children should stay 3–6 feet apart from others. They also suggest that when schools open for in-person instruction that classes be conducted outside whenever possible and that teachers should move from class to class instead of students.
● Children should use a mask. The AAP recommends that children over the age of 2 should wear a mask. Cloth masks do not make it harder for children to breathe. Further, lung development is not hampered by wearing a mask. Masks should be worn so that they allow for unrestricted breathing. Both the mouth and the nose should be covered. Masks should be washed daily after returning from school.
● Take a shower. Dr. Michael Rich recommends that students alter their showering and bathing routine. Students should take a shower or bath upon returning home from school.
● Monitor your child’s mental health. The pandemic has had an impact on mental health for both children and adults. It is important for parents and guardians to monitor children’s mental health. If you notice changes and are concerned, reach out to your child’s pediatrician or contact the school’s social worker for advice.
References
Roland, A. The missing link? Children and transmission of SARS-CoV-2, Don’t Forget the Bubbles, 2020. Available at:
We now offer PCR test (results in 3–7 days), Antigen test, Antibody test, and COVID-19 test with most insurances. Slow the spread and find out if COVID-19 has infected you. Get tested today!
About Us
Here at HealthNeed Medical Urgent Care, our main goal is to provide an easy and friendly walk-in experience that will have you face to face with one of our many medical specialists within minutes of checking in and without an appointment. Our team of medical experts offers treatments anywhere from bandaging small scrapes and cuts to IVs. Come check out our offices that are open 365 days a year. We provide pediatric as well as senior medical care, with most health insurances accepted.
Queens Crossing
38–21 Main St, Suite 1A
Flushing, NY 11354
Wheelchair Accessible Entrance:
136–17 39th Ave, Suite 1A
Flushing, NY 11354
Phone: (718) 888–1808
Terms of Use and Disclaimer — The information contained in this document has been culled from online resources and government agencies and is for general informational purposes only. The information is provided in good faith to support the community and our friends impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We makes no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. Your use of this document and your reliance on the information contained herein is solely at your own risk. All liability with respect to any reader, user or browser’s reliance on this document and/or actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this document is hereby expressly disclaimed.
