Why Are BC Kids Always Getting Sick?

This fall, BC kids have been hit hard by viruses. Schools reopened during a COVID surge, and since then, kids and their families haven't stopped getting sick. RSV and flu rates are high, and many parents feel like they're living on a sickness rollercoaster. Last year's "immunity debt" idea, blaming weak immune systems from lack of infections, is now being questioned. Scientists point out that kids born after lockdowns are also getting sick, suggesting something else is at play.

Some experts think COVID-19 itself might weaken the immune system, making kids more vulnerable to other infections. This could explain why so many kids are constantly sick. Public health measures, like better ventilation in schools, could help, but political leaders aren't taking action. Parents need to protect their kids with all the tools available, like vaccines and masks, because repeated infections aren't making kids stronger.

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