Protection of Children during COVID-19

Abstract

Introduction: Emerging evidence from China, Europe, and the USA has shown a consistently higher risk of severe COVID-19 in older individuals and those with underlying health conditions. Severe disease is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “a patient with severe acute respiratory illness (fever and at least one sign/symptom of respiratory disease, for example, cough, shortness of breath); and requiring hospitalization”. In a recent report from the USA, underlying conditions were reported in 71% (732/1037) of individuals admitted to hospital with COVID-19 and in 94% (173/184) of deaths. The WHO, along with public health agencies in countries such as the UK and USA, have issued guidelines on who is considered to be at increased risk of severe COVID-19. About 34,396,222 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 1,024,675 deaths were reported by the WHO with prevalence rate of 6,547,413 and death rate of 101,812 at globally. This includes individuals with cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease and a range of other chronic conditions. Such conditions increase the risk of requiring hospital-based treatment such as oxygen supplementation. A large proportion of the additional healthcare burden of COVID-19 epidemics is likely to result from infection of those with underlying conditions. Conclusion: The present article suggests the necessary measures for children about prevention of COVID-19 and it teaches the children about how to take care during pandemic. Great effort is needed for the prevention of COVID-19 among children.