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Early reports seemed to show little incidence rates of COVID-19 among children, leading health officials to speculate that children were less likely to contract and spread the illness.
However, recent surges in cases around the country have revealed a clearer picture about how COVID-19 impacts children. The most current data shows that now, unlike the early months of the pandemic, there is adequate testing for all individuals, not just those who are older adults or those who are hospitalized.
In a report released by the American Academy of Pediatrics released on July 17, 2020, children represent 8% of all confirmed COVID-19 cases.
Between 7/2 and 7/16, there has been a 46% increase in child cases. Seven states have 10,000+ child cases of COVID, and Ohio ranks 16 out for the highest number of child cases among the 50 states and all U.S. territories as of 7/16/2020.
Given the current increase in cases in Hardin county and the recent announcement that neighboring Allen county where many of us shop and do business, Ada SAFE 2020 strongly encourages the Ada School Board to require masks for all children in school for at least the first 9 weeks to class.
The safety of teachers, school staff, other children, and the families of those children is paramount. Masks and social distancing are the standard for protecting the greatest number of people as we start our school year and allow our students to have the educational experience of in-person classes in a safe manner.
Chris North
Ada SAFE 2020
The purpose of Ada SAFE 2020 is to organize community members who wish to see our local schools adhere to medically and scientifically sound advice and guidelines when our schools open again in the fall, and to educate the public about the latest scientific research and guidance to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus and the disease which stems from the virus, COVID-19.
