Experts urge children to get COVID vaccines now

Experts urge children to get COVID vaccines now

Fall is Here, Vaccinate Your Children Against Respiratory Infections

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Sept. 26, 2023 – Fall is here, schools are back in session, and pumpkin spice is in the air. So is the annual reminder to parents to ensure their children’s respiratory infection vaccinations are up to date, especially against the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

This year, in addition to the regular vaccinations, the CDC recommends an updated COVID-19 shot for everyone ages 6 months and older. The new recommendations state that children 5 and older should receive at least one dose of the updated Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, and those aged 6 months to 4 years should get two doses of either vaccine, with one of the doses being the updated shot.

Keeping up with COVID Variants

This year’s COVID vaccines target a specific mutation of the virus called XBB.1.5 and its related variants. They also provide protection against strains linked to an uptick in cases and hospitalizations over the summer. These updated shots aim to keep children safe and protected from the evolving nature of the virus.

However, despite these recommendations, more than half of U.S. children between the ages of 6 months and 17 years have not received their first COVID-19 shot, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Concerns about the safety of the vaccines and potential long-term side effects, such as myocarditis or multisystem inflammatory syndrome, continue to impact parents’ decisions.

Debunking Vaccine Myths

Research has shown that the risk of myocarditis is much higher in children who develop COVID-19 compared to those who are vaccinated against it. It is important to note that myocarditis cases have primarily occurred in boys. Similarly, MIS-C, a severe immune response affecting multiple organs, is extremely rare after COVID vaccination. Studies suggest that those who develop MIS-C may have a specific genetic marker making them more susceptible.

Despite the evidence, skepticism among some parents remains. Sarah Weaver, a 40-year-old mother of three and high school English teacher, expressed her fears about the heart-related issues linked to the vaccine. She worries about her active boys, but she also acknowledges that the risks associated with COVID-19 are potentially greater than the risks of vaccination.

Weighing the Risks

Experts emphasize that COVID-19 has become one of the leading causes of pediatric deaths, with most deaths occurring in children with no preexisting medical conditions. It is crucial to consider the potential severity of the disease and its long-term effects on children’s health.

Addressing concerns about myocarditis, Sean O’Leary, professor of pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, notes that the risk was highest after the second dose of the initial series. However, studies have shown a significant decline in these cases since then. The introduction of the booster does not anticipate a resurgence in MIS-C either.

Shelby Kutty, director of pediatric and congenital cardiology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, reassures parents that vaccine-related myocarditis cases were mostly mild and individuals recovered within 3 to 5 days. In contrast, the actual SARS-CoV-2 infection carries a substantially increased risk of severe cardiac complications, including myocarditis, pericarditis, heart rhythm problems, and death, especially if the person is not vaccinated.

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome – A Rare Occurrence

MIS-C, resembling Kawasaki disease and typically observed in young children, is another concern among parents. Data shows that MIS-C rates with the previous mRNA vaccines have remained low. Cases developed approximately 2 to 4 weeks after COVID infection but followed the peaks of overall infection cases by about a month.

Robert W. Frenck Jr., director of the Vaccine Research Center at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, explains that MIS-C is an overexuberant immune response. Comparing the rate and severity of MIS-C from infection versus that from the vaccine, the latter is substantially lower, revealing the vaccine’s safety.

The Importance of Pediatric Vaccination

Since the start of the pandemic, parents and caregivers have struggled to navigate the overwhelming influx of information. Ultimately, they want what is best for their children. Concerns about the vaccine’s necessity, mildness of the disease, and low risk of infection often factor into their decision-making process. However, with COVID-19 being one of the top 10 causes of pediatric deaths, prioritizing vaccination can save lives.

Sean O’Leary stresses that numerous causes of death in children, such as cancer and accidents, lead to prompt action if a safe and effective intervention is available. In the case of COVID vaccines, preventing severe illness and death in children becomes possible through vaccination. Frenck echoes his sentiments, highlighting the tragedy of preventable deaths or severe illness due to COVID-19.

As fall arrives and the new school year begins, it is crucial to prioritize your child’s health and safety. Vaccinations against respiratory infections, including the updated COVID-19 shots, offer the best defense against these diseases. With the evolving nature of the virus and the potential risks associated with COVID-19, vaccinating your children becomes an essential step in protecting their well-being.

Don’t let myths and misconceptions cloud your judgment. Trust in the science, consult reputable health experts, and make an informed decision to keep your children healthy and thriving.