Back to School In-Depth: Delta variant’s impact on children

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — With school just a few weeks away — and thousands of students getting ready to return to the classroom, we know a lot of you are concerned about the Delta variant.

News10NBC is going In-Depth to bring you the facts.

The American Academy of Pediatrics reported an 85% jump in COVID cases among children just in the last two weeks. Pediatricians say they are still learning a lot about the Delta variant and how it’s affecting kids — but what they do know is it is more contagious than the original strain and can spread quickly.

They say that spread happens more through those who are not vaccinated and right now kids under the age of 12 do fall into that category,

The AAP found kids now account for 19% of COVID-19 cases, leading to hospitalizations and serious health issues as parents wait for their school districts to come out with their own safety guidance for returning back to the classrooms.

Pediatricians say there are two things parents with children 12 and under should focus on.

"One is that it’s normal to be worried," Medical Director at MVP Healthcare Dr. Kristen Navarette said. "We learned the things we can do to stay vigilant…things like wearing a mask, social distancing choosing outdoor activities if possible as we’re learning about this new COVID variant."

Pediatricians are pushing the FDA to authorize a vaccine for kids under the age of 12

This week — the AAP wrote a letter to the FDA urging it to be "aggressive" in getting that done.