19 August 2020
Together with the International Child Health Group, we call on governments, donors and agencies to monitor and report the effects of the pandemic response on families and children, and to prioritise a new era of investment in robust, family-centred health systems.
Our statement notes that despite direct effects on children from the COVID-19 virus being rare so far, the indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide could be catastrophic for children, with considerable excess death and suffering.
As one example, global vaccination coverage has already been severely compromised due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its response.
Child health professionals must advocate for children’s needs to become more visible, and for the rights of all children to protection, survival, participation and development to be upheld within global and national actions.
You can read our full statement.