With the coronavirus pandemic continuing to be present, younger citizens are starting to become a part of COVID-19 statistics. 

Dallas County Health Department Public Information Officer Ann Cochran says children are a part of the COVID-19 cases in Iowa but she says it may not be to the rate of other states which are reporting high rates and children being hospitalized, but it is happening in Iowa. 

“For parents to keep in mind the minimum age is 12. So, if you have a son or daughter who is as young as 12-years-old they can get the vaccine and that will keep them from getting very sick.”

Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio people should remember that children under the age of 12 cannot become vaccinated and reminds people of some safety tips as it relates to unvaccinated children. 

“I don’t think it’s out of line for parents to be firm about their child care providers that if you are going to be paying someone to take care of their child you expect them to keep your child from getting sick.”

Cochran says parents should be aware of how many people their children are around and to make sure to continue to teach them good social distancing as well and to remind them to keep washing hands and not touch their mouths, among other things.