CDC: Omicron creates surge in hospitalization for children

Peak rates of COVID-19 hospitalization among U.S. infants and children under age 5 were roughly five times higher when the omicron variant was predominant compared with when the delta variant was in wide circulation, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). During omicron predominance, 63% of hospitalized infants and children had no underlying medical conditions. Infants under six months old accounted for 44% of hospitalizations. The reported noted that strategies to prevent COVID-19 among infants and young children include vaccinating eligible pregnant women, family members and caregivers. (MMWR article, 3/15/22)