Why the Omicron Variant Spreads Faster Among Children: What Parents Need to Know
An in-depth look at how the Omicron COVID-19 variant affects children more rapidly and what measures can protect young ones.
The number of emergency hospitalizations for COVID-19 among children aged two to five has increased significantly.
When the coronavirus first emerged, medical experts reassured the public that children and teenagers were largely spared, and that adults could protect themselves through vaccination and mask-wearing. However, the emergence of the Delta variant revealed that the virus continually mutates, posing risks to everyone—including vaccinated individuals, the young, and otherwise healthy people.
This is because new variants can more easily penetrate the human body. COVID-19 adapts swiftly to various conditions, meaning that even vaccinations and public health restrictions cannot guarantee complete protection. Vaccinated individuals tend to experience milder symptoms and recover more quickly, but the risk remains. This is particularly true for the African variant identified in December 2021.
Currently, the likelihood of contracting the Omicron variant is much higher than that of Delta. Omicron spreads faster than its predecessors, with symptoms often appearing within a day. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, cough, headache, and in some cases, conjunctivitis. Notably, most infected individuals are minors and young adults under 39.
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Omicron poses the greatest risk to children aged two to five. Doctors warn that managing the virus at home has become more challenging, leading to increased hospital admissions. A particularly serious concern is bronchiolitis, an inflammation of the upper airways and bronchi, which causes prolonged symptoms requiring immediate medical attention.
Children have a higher respiratory rate than adults, making them more vulnerable to respiratory infections like COVID-19.
"This new variant primarily targets the upper respiratory tract in infected patients. Children may face numerous concerning symptoms, but fortunately, these are not fatal," says Indian epidemiologist Animesh Arya.
How can parents protect their children? Virologists recommend isolation and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Outdoor activities are encouraged, but visits to crowded public places and events should be avoided. Additionally, a diet rich in vitamins and fiber supports the immune system.
"Parents should encourage their children to stay home as much as possible, follow all COVID-19 precautions, and ensure proper nutrition to reduce the risk of severe illness," advises a medical expert. Any symptoms should prompt immediate consultation with a healthcare professional and a PCR test.
New virus mutations also affect teenagers. Discussions are underway in several countries about officially vaccinating children aged 12 to 17.
"Young children can rapidly develop acute respiratory distress. The infection spreads quickly from the upper respiratory tract to the bronchi and lungs, causing severe inflammation and swelling of the upper airway mucosa, which may lead to choking. Breastfeeding mothers can protect infants by getting vaccinated and passing antibodies through breast milk. Maintaining strict hygiene practices remains essential," explains Elena Solodkaya, head of the pediatric department at a clinical infectious diseases hospital.
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