First few Article Sentences
From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have heard that children are less affected by the virus, but that is far from the truth. Yes, most kids and teens infected by COVID-19 suffer less severe symptoms, and have the lowest mortality rate, but they are not immune from COVID-19’s consequences. In fact, children and teens have experienced a quadruple whammy during the pandemic.
First, with the rising number of cases and deaths, many children have lost grandparents or other important adults in their lives. Losing that loved one is hard enough, but in most cases, they were never able to say a proper goodbye. In addition, the grieving process, which could usually include hugs from other relatives, was far less likely in a time of social distancing.
Second, kids and teens have sorely missed the in-person education that stopped last spring. So far, there is no clear sign when kids might return to school. Kids and teens have largely been cut off from teachers, athletic coaches, and school counselors who are important sources of ongoing support. Video and telephone interaction does not fully compensate for the loss. On top of that, for all kids, the loss of the opportunity to socialize with peers has been profound and isolating.