(2/17) First, a recap. Studies in this sub-thread provide evidence that some children can experience severe disease, can shed infectious virus, can likely infect others, and for the effectiveness of school closures.
(3/17) There is growing evidence that children and adults are at equal risk of infection with the novel coronavirus. Some studies which have suggested otherwise have some important caveats.
(4/17) This study from China found that children were less likely to be infected than adults in households. However, all household members were promptly quarantined away from their home when a case was detected.
(5/17) In contrast, more recent studies show that in the absence of strict quarantine measures, children and adults seem to be at a similar risk.
(6/17) Data from China showing no difference in the proportion of children and adults infected with the novel coronavirus.
(7/17) Data from Switzerland showing no difference in the proportion of children and adults infected with the novel coronavirus.
(8/17) Data from Germany showing no difference in the proportion of children and adults infected with the novel coronavirus.
(9/17) Data from the UK showing no difference in the proportion of children and adults infected with the novel coronavirus.
(10/17) We have also witnessed the emergence of a new Kawasaki-like illness (now called paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome - #PIMS) in children.
(11/17) Data from the UK show that the Kawasaki-like illness affecting children likely results from infection with the novel coronavirus.
(12/17) The incidence of Kawasaki-like illness in children has increased 30-fold in Bergamo, Italy.
(13/17) It's very important to note that this syndrome appears to be rare. However, it does show that we don't yet fully understand all of the risks associated with the novel coronavirus.
(14/17) While it now seems likely that children and adults are at equal risk of infection with the novel coronavirus, we don't yet know how readily children transmit the virus to others. Previous research (linked to at the start of this thread) has shown this is possible however.
(15/17) In regions where there is ongoing community transmission of the novel coronavirus, the evidence suggests that reopening schools could increase the spread of the virus, both in the school and the wider community.
(16/17) It would therefore seem sensible to first ascertain that the risk of community transmission is low (for example, by random testing of the population), before considering reopening schools.
(17/17) If schools reopen in regions with a low risk of community transmission, measures should be taken to protect teachers and students. This could include wearing masks, rearranged seating, increased ventilation, and staggering of classes.
