10 Sep Children and COVID-19

Among the rise of cases and hospitalizations from the Delta variant in August, there was an increase in pediatric cases for people less than 18 years old, both in Oregon and nationwide. The data for Oregon shows that those increases were highest in the 12-17 age group. Anyone over age 12 is eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, which is the best way to protect yourself against the virus.

While a vaccine is not yet available for children younger than 12 (the timeline is still unclear for when a vaccine will be approved),  there are ways to keep the entire family safe. 

• Wear a mask
• Get vaccinated if you are eligible
• Choose safe activities for your family – outdoors and not in crowds
• Wash your hands
• Limit visits with people outside of your household

Mental health is just as important and physical health.It has not been an easy time for kids. After another summer overshadowed by the pandemic, another school year starts off with uncertainty.

There are resources for teens if they need to talk to someone:

• Call 877-968-8491
• Texting “teen2teen” to 839863
• Emailing Teen2Teen@LinesforLife.org 
• Using the chat feature at oregonyouthline.org 

Learn how to get the vaccine in Washington County: 

Click Here for Spanish or Click Here for English

For more about COVID-19, resources and more, Click Here to Read the Updated FAQ!