Doha: The Ministry of Public Health confirmed that a 3-week-old baby has sadly died as a result of severe infection from Covid-19. The baby had no other known medical or hereditary conditions. This is only the second child to have died from Covid-19 in Qatar since the start of the pandemic.
The Ministry of Public Health confirmed that although children have been less at risk of severe infection than older people since the start of the pandemic, a greater number of children are being infected in this current wave and needing medical care than in previous waves.
The Ministry said the death of the baby is a stark reminder that people of all ages are at risk of being infected by COVID-19, and despite being rare, most countries around the world have sadly recorded deaths among young children.
The Ministry called on all members of the community to support the ongoing efforts against COVID-19, through three main actions:
1. Getting vaccinated, including having the booster vaccine when you are eligible without delay (including pregnant women) - vaccination protects you and those around you.
2. Isolating yourself from other people if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and getting tested if needed.
3. Adhering to the precautionary measures including wearing of masks, social distancing and regular hand washing, as well as adhering to COVID-19 restrictions.
“The Ministry of Public Health extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May Allah the Almighty grant them the power to overcome this difficult time,” MoPH said in a statement.