When high-risk individuals come to mind, many think of senior citizens above the age of 60, especially since such heavy emphasis has been placed on this group for vaccination priority. However, we shouldn’t forget that children are similarly at risk of getting infected by Covid-19.
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In a recent statement published by the National Security Council (MKN), Defence Minister Ismail Sabri said there was a drastic increase of cases in children reportedly infected with Covid-19 as compared to the 8,369 cases that were reported throughout 2020.
“If before this, senior citizens were a high-risk group of being infected by Covid-19, it seems as though the threat of the virus has spread to children as well.”
The statement cited statistics from KKM which said that 41,971 babies and children aged between one and a half years old to 12 years old have been infected with this virus. As for infants below this age, 6,290 cases have been reported.
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“This new development is very worrying and should be taken as a ‘wake up call’ to all parties, especially parents. As adults, we have to be responsible for protecting our children from getting infected,” added the statement.
“Hence, aside from emphasising adherence to the SOPs, we also need to practice ‘self-lockdown’ or restricted movement to prevent ourselves, our children and loved ones from getting infected with Covid-19.”
Parents are advised to keep a watchful eye on their children and discourage them from playing outside the house, encouraging the use of face masks and ensuring hand sanitisers are frequently used.
With the cases hitting the 7,000 mark yesterday, let’s all take extra precaution and stay indoors to stop the spread of the virus.
Also read: JUST IN: Malaysia Records Highest Daily Cases With 7,289 New Covid-19 Infections
