The coronavirus pandemic will hit children much harder, especially in developing countries. This is due to the poor support system and infrastructure in these countries.
The coronavirus pandemic has adversely affected children and young adults aged 18 years and below. As the world continues to battle the spread of the virus, its impact on these age groups will have a long-lasting effect.
Children hit hard by the pandemic
Currently, 99 percent of children are under some sort of restrictions due to coronavirus which has been imposed in 186 countries that have recorded at least one case of coronavirus. Data from UNICEF also shows that 60 percent of children are living in countries under lockdown, with 7 of these countries being full lockdown and 53 percent partial lockdown accounting to almost 1.4 billion children.
The lockdowns and economic turmoil around the globe are taking a toll on children and the less fortunate, where they are not able to access education. Inequality in children has also been laid bare for countries that are implementing online learning for their students.
Investments in Children welfare
In times of crisis, most governments deprioritize investment in the future and all efforts go into solving the current problem. The coronavirus pandemic has not been different, countries are now focused on defeating the invisible enemy and all resources have are being channeled in fighting the virus. Children’s education and welfare programs investment have now been put on hold.
However, investing in Children’s education and welfare programs such as health care and nutrition now will help in alleviating problems that would otherwise arise when reopening the economy. This is according to UNICEF data which looked at the impact of not addressing children’s concerns during this pandemic.
Longterm coronavirus impact
The impact of the pandemic on children will be much worse in developing countries. The rising cases of the virus will overwhelm their fragile health systems, causing suffering and fatalities to these children. The resulting effects will be long term. The financial toll in developing countries is also affecting these children, where nutritious food access, water, and health services are becoming harder to come by.
The long-lasting effect of the pandemic for this demographic will be the forgotten victims of the virus. The millions of children who will be left without parents, in a financially unstable environment, and in much worse health conditions will be the highlights of the pandemic.
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