CHARLOTTE, N.C. — New research shows teenagers are the most likely to bring COVID-19 into their homes, but once it's there, babies and toddlers are the most likely to spread the virus to their families.
Researchers found kids 3 years or younger were most likely to spread COVID-19 to other members of their household. The findings were part of a major study in Canada.
So why are young kids now playing such a big role in the transmission of the coronavirus? Experts say there are a few things happening at once.
First, there's just more data. Now that kids are back in schools and day cares, we're getting a more accurate picture of how kids can spread COVID-19.
Second, several studies have shown that young kids can carry the same viral load as adults.
Finally, experts say behavior could play the biggest role. Younger kids, especially babies and toddlers, require a lot of hands-on care. And because they can't isolate when they're sick, it means if the baby's sick, there's a good chance someone else in the family will be, too.
Doctors say the study's findings reinforce how important masks and social distancing are in school and day care settings.
Contact Ben Thompson at bthompson@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Wake Up Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at Wake Up Charlotte.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Stitcher || TuneIn || Google Podcasts
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.