Photo: ARIANA DREHSLER / AFP / Getty Images
HOUSTON – Health authorities confirmed the first death of a minor in the city of Houston from COVID – 19 without pre-existing health conditions.
The Houston Department of Health reported that a child between 10 and 19 years without pre-existing health conditions passed away in July , the previous six pediatric deaths occurred from COVID – 19 in the city had all underlying health conditions.
The child, who was not vaccinated against COVID – 19, was white and died at the end of July in a city hospital. Although he tested positive for COVID – 19, it is currently unknown if he was infected with a variant of the virus .
Houston boy between ages 10 and 19 has died of COVID | City’s 1st pediatric death without underlying conditions https://t.co/5IuCF7R3bE
– ABC 13 Houston (@abc 13 houston) August 26, 2021
Privacy laws prevent that the health department provide any other identifiable information.
“On behalf of the City of Houston, I extend my condolences to the child’s family during his moment of pain, “said Mayor Sylvester Turner. “The death of a loved one under any circumstance is heartbreaking, especially when we have the power to slow the spread and save lives. I encourage all eligible Houston residents 12 years or older to vaccinate and wear a mask in large crowds or areas where you cannot socially distance yourself. “
The Pfizer COVID Vaccine – 19 is currently licensed for people over 12 years, while the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are currently licensed for people over the age of 18 years.
Vaccination prevents serious illness, hospitalization and death; also helps reduce the spread of COVID – 19.
“This tragedy serves as a reminder that children, even without underlying health conditions, can become seriously ill and die from COVID – 19, ”said Dr. David Persse, City of Houston Medical Director. “Getting vaccinated is not just about protecting yourself, it’s about protecting everyone close to you, especially your family, from serious illness and death.”
With the Delta variant, the most contagious one that is spreading rapidly, the health department urges everyone, regardless of vaccination status, to wearing a face shield in closed public environments.
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