For parents with children that have underlying health issues such as asthma, the reality of living in a world without a COVID-19 vaccine is of significantly more concern than most. 

Fortunately, parents and students have options. In fact, every school district in northwest Pennsylvania has a remote learning option for the 2020-21 school year. Details on remote options can be found on the district reopening plan page. 

Epidemiologist Dr. Becky Dawson explains why special considerations need to be made for immunocompromised students. 

Statement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): 

It’s not known yet whether all children with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

Although most COVID-19 cases in children are not severe, serious illness that needs to be treated at the hospital still happens. Some data on children reported that the majority who needed hospitalization for COVID-19 had at least one underlying medical condition. The most common underlying conditions reported among children with COVID-19 include chronic lung disease (including asthma), heart disease, and conditions that weaken the immune system. This information suggests that children with these underlying medical conditions may be at risk for more severe illness from COVID-19.

More data are needed to learn which underlying or complex medical conditions may put children at increased risk. CDC is monitoring new information as it becomes available and will provide updates as needed.

Learn more about caring for children with special health care needs during a disaster and people who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

 

Statement from the World Health Organization (WHO): 

Whether a child should go to school depends on their health condition, the current transmission of COVID-19 within their community, and the protective measures the school and community have in place to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. While current evidence suggests that the risk of severe disease for children is lower overall than for adults, special precautions can be taken to minimize the risk of infection among children, and the benefits of returning to school should also be considered.

Current evidence suggests that people with underlying conditions such as chronic respiratory illness, obesity, diabetes or cancer are at higher risk of developing severe disease and death than people without other health conditions. This also appears to be the case for children, but more information is still needed. 


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION