'We have a responsibility': Local pediatrician alarmed to see child COVID-19 cases soar
On Tuesday, when state leaders will release six days worth of data, we will learn how many people tested positive for COVID-19 in North Carolina in the last week. In the most recent update, which was before Christmas, cases were rising.
As cases increase, local pediatricians are sounding the alarm on concerning trends of a rise in COVID-19 infections among children.
“We are seeing some changing trends. Our numbers at Chapel Hill Pediatrics and Adolescents have increased significantly just in the last two weeks,” said pediatrician Dr. Kathy Merritt.
“If you look at our numbers from Jan. 1 until Dec. 8, we’ve certainly had COVID cases positive over the course of that time, but in the last two weeks we’ve had an increase of up to probably 10% of cases that we’re testing. Prior to that, we were less than 2% to 3%,” said Merritt.
National data indicates 170,000 American children were infected with the virus last week alone. That’s up 28% in two weeks.
“The numbers are dramatic. Over 6,500 tests were done prior to Dec. 8. In the 11 1/2 months it was less than 300 cases. And in eight days we’ve already had 33 cases positive out of 300 tested,” Merritt added.
On Tuesday, state data will confirm if this trend is progressing or trailing off as concerns over the new omicron variant steepen.
According to doctors, the data suggests the omicron variant is more contagious, and unvaccinated people are at the greatest risk.
“Every time you get vaccinated you increase the protection. And if you increase your protection, you increase the protection of people you love. Whether it’s your children, your parents, your friends or just your community,” Merritt added.
While most children are out of school for winter break, the new surge in cases also draws new fears over when students should return to classrooms.
“People say children aren’t as likely to get sick, but they can get the virus. They can spread it," Merritt said. "They can have long-term effects of COVID-19. They can share it with people, their loved ones who are more vulnerable who can get sicker and who can die."
Chapel Hill Pediatrics has held several community events to bring awareness, education and even accessibility to COVID-related needs.
“There’s economic hardship, missed educational opportunities. The number of children who are out of school because they get COVID -- that’s a big deal," Merritt added. "And of course, mental health. We are seeing incredible suffering of children because of mental health stressors related to COVID."
Merritt emphasized the importance of those who are eligible to get the vaccine and booster. She also draws more urgency toward pregnant woman to get the shot to protect themselves and their babies.
“We’re over 1,000 deaths in children in the United States as of Dec. 21, and that’s significant. These are children who didn’t need to die of COVID. And unfortunately, children under the age of five, we still can’t protect them with vaccines. We have a responsibility,” she added.
