Coronavirus: Third wave apprehensions concerning children & preparedness suggested

The National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) has indicated that there is “insufficient evidence to suggest a third Covid wave will affect children more than adults”, adding that there is still “cause for worry if not panic” as long as they remain unvaccinated and the existing medical facilities are inadequate, according to a report by the NDTV. The NIDM operates under the Union Home Ministry.

The report quotes NIDM stating – in its report on recommendations for preparations on the third wave – that “Paediatric facilities – doctors and equipment, like ventilators and ambulances, are nowhere close to what may be required in case a large number of children become infected.”

The NIDM is also said to have raised the issue of co-morbidities among children and said vaccination must be an “immediate priority”. Between 60-70 per cent COVID-positive children have co-morbidities, according to the health ministry data quoted in the report. Vaccination for those between 12 to 17 may begin shortly, according to indications so far.

Hospitals and other health facilities in some parts of the country – like in Bengal – have started upgrading and preparing their paediatric facilities in view of a possible third wave affecting children. Experts are of the opinion that the third wave may be fought to a large extent by increasing vaccination. Till now, India has administered over 58 crore vaccine doses so far. However, only 13.1 crore of these are second doses and this has to increase to a great extent to ensure maximum protection against the virus, say experts.