Michigan is Experiencing an Increase in COVID Hospitalizations Among Children

In March 2020, as the world came to a standstill, many parents found solace in one reassuring thought: children were largely safe from the severe effects of COVID-19. However, it has become evident that this notion is not as reliable as we once believed. While children typically handle the virus better than adults, they can still experience long-term symptoms, known as “COVID longhaulers,” and face the risk of developing Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), which can lead to serious health complications or even death. Consequently, children, both with underlying health conditions and those without, may require hospitalization.

A Surge in Pediatric Hospitalizations in Michigan

Currently, Michigan is witnessing a concerning rise in pediatric COVID hospitalizations. By the end of March, cases among children surged by 133 percent over the previous four weeks, with 49 children hospitalized on April 12 due to confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases. “The state has reached a record high for pediatric hospitalizations during the entire pandemic, and our facility reflects this trend,” stated Dr. Ethan Cooper, a pediatric nephrologist at Michigan Children’s Hospital and group chief medical officer for the Detroit Health System.

Children with underlying medical conditions are particularly affected by the increase in cases. Dr. Lisa Nguyen, an emergency medicine physician at the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, noted, “We are seeing more admissions among patients who have pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or Crohn’s disease, and these patients are now presenting with COVID.”

Potential Causes for the Increase in Cases

The exact reasons for this dramatic rise in pediatric cases remain unclear, but experts have several theories.

The Role of Schools and Sports

During the initial waves of the pandemic, Michigan implemented strict shutdowns: schools transitioned to remote learning, sports activities were suspended, and dining establishments closed their doors. These measures significantly limited in-person interactions among children. However, the current situation differs. The governor has recommended a two-week pause on in-person learning and sports, but these measures are not mandatory. Consequently, cases tied to schools and youth sports have risen. According to reports, Michigan has experienced a 77% increase in cases since mid-February, primarily due to youth sports.

The Impact of Variants

Transmissible variants of the virus are also contributing to the situation. The CDC has confirmed that the variant first identified in the U.K., known as B.1.1.7, is now the predominant source of new infections in the U.S. This variant is notably present in Michigan, which reports one of the highest rates of the B.1.1.7 variant. Its increased transmissibility could be a significant factor in the current surge in pediatric cases. Some experts suggest that this variant may also be linked to more severe disease, although further research is needed.

In the U.K., a surge associated with the B.1.1.7 variant resulted in a 30% increase in hospitalizations within a week, prompting government officials to implement a national lockdown. While this surge didn’t necessarily lead to increased pediatric hospitalizations, cases of MIS-C did rise sharply.

The Risk of MIS-C

With the increasing number of COVID-19 cases among children, there is growing concern about potential MIS-C cases in Michigan. Dr. Clara Bennett, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Great Lakes Children’s Hospital, remarked, “As COVID-19 cases rise in young individuals, we expect to see more instances of MIS-C at our facility.” MIS-C is a serious condition that can arise weeks after a COVID infection, often affecting children who appear healthy.

Although MIS-C is rare and most cases are treatable, the long-term effects remain uncertain. Children diagnosed with MIS-C may require ongoing care from a cardiologist into their teenage years. As of late March, Michigan had reported 95 cases of MIS-C, with five resulting in fatalities.

The Importance of Vaccination for Adults

In Michigan, over 60% of adults aged 65 and older have received their vaccinations. However, children under 16 are not yet eligible for vaccination, and approval for vaccinations in younger children may still be some time away. This leaves children vulnerable to infection, making it crucial for adults in the community to take protective measures, including wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and getting vaccinated when possible. Reducing the virus’s circulation is essential for the safety of everyone, especially children.

This article originally published on April 16, 2021.

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In summary, Michigan is facing a worrying rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations among children, fueled by factors such as increased in-person interactions in schools and youth sports, as well as the spread of more transmissible variants. As the number of cases rises, the risk of developing MIS-C also increases, highlighting the urgent need for community efforts to protect children through vaccinations and preventive measures.