By JULIE CUNNINGHAM
(Franklin County, MA) Children under the age of 12 are not yet approved for COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. Baystate Hospital Pediatrician John O’Reilly recommends scheduling children for back to school check ups and physicals now, so doctors can address any concerns parents might have and update students on required vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines are not yet required for teachers and students over the age of 12 in Massachusetts, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends masks for anyone over the age of two, vaccines for students over the age of 12, social distancing protocols, good ventilation systems, and testing for at risk and symptomatic individuals.
“So, for kids over 12, vaccination is the best defense, since our current vaccines still protect against the Delta variant. Mask wearing is our best second line of defense, since that sneeze or cough may not leave the infected person’s mask, and if a few Delta particles sneak around the mask people in the area are protected when they are wearing a mask,” said Doctor O’Reilly.
Doctor O’Reilly said schools should use what he calls a layered defense towards preventing the spread of COVID-19 in their communities which include vaccines for anyone who is eligible, good hygiene practices, and social distancing protocols. AAP also recommended the flue vaccine as part of the course of protection for students due to the severe illness that the flue can cause in young children. Parents should check with their schools and pediatricians regarding what vaccines are required in their area.
Back to school shopping lists for 2021 will also look a little different. Students will also need face masks, hand sanitizer, tissues and disinfectant wipes. Doctors also recommend talking to children about the differences in social interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic, mainly that sharing may not be a good idea during this time due to the spread of COVID-19 and social distancing is still an important way to protect against the spread of the virus.