Young children said to be more immune to COVID-19 than adults

The number of children affected by COVID-19 has shown to be significantly lower than older age groups. In a study conducted by Nature Medicine, there are age-dependent effects in the spread of the virus.

“Age disparities in observed cases could be explained by children having lower susceptibility to infection, lower propensity to show clinical symptoms or both,” reported the study.

Using age-specific data from 32 settings in six countries, the study took note of other factors that tend to affect the demographic and number of those infected saying, “In countries with younger population structures—such as many low-income countries—the expected per capita incidence of clinical cases would be lower than in countries with older population structures, although it is likely that comorbidities in low-income countries will also influence disease severity.”

Children and teenagers are only half as likely to get infected with COVID-19 as adults age 20 and older, according to an article by the Washington Post, saying that children usually don’t develop clinical symptoms of COVID-19.

The findings bring positive news to schools and families across the world, as the results of the study could influence policymakers who are facing tough decisions about when and how to reopen schools and day-care centers, according to the Washington Post.

“Their nasal passages don’t have the density of the right receptors to lock into as easily as adults,” Kansas City Health Director Dr. Rex Archer said in an interview with KMBC.

Archer further supported the idea that elementary schools could look more traditional in the fall – especially if children get shots to prevent the flu. However, Archer is more concerned about elementary teachers and staff, recommending that for the health of relatives and those with higher risk that groups remain small and continue to wear masks.