Social distancing for COVID-19 decreased infectious diseases in children.

McBride, Deborah L

The social distancing resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a significant decrease in a number of common childhood illnesses. A recent study found that the rates of diagnoses per 100,000 children for the 12 childhood infectious diseases were significantly lower after social distancing was instituted. The largest declines were in respiratory illness including influenza (99.5%), croup (96.5%), and bronchiolitis (92.9%). The smallest decreases were in skin and soft tissue infections and urinary tract infections (35% for each). However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that the immunization rates for American children have dramatically decreased since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As social distancing is relaxed, children who are not protected by vaccines will be more vulnerable to serious diseases such as measles and whooping cough. Coordinated efforts by health care providers and public health officials on all levels will be necessary to rapidly catch up on missed routine vaccinations.