LAUSR

Children can transmit severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and, although at a lower risk, can experience serious outcomes from infection. Vaccinating children against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is essential to protecting their health and establishing higher population immunity. In 2015–2017, 1 in 6 children aged 3 to 17 years had a developmental disability (DD) such as cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or intellectual disability (ID). DDs are a diverse group of chronic conditions that begin in childhood and can impact functioning throughout life. Despite limited data in public health surveillance systems, in some evidence, it is suggested that some children with DDs might be disproportionately affected by COVID-19, both by the illness itself and the pandemic’s impact on receipt of services. Children with DDs often have medical conditions that contribute to higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, can experience barriers to accessing needed health care, and can possess other characteristics increasing their risk from COVID-19, including limited mobility, direct care requirements, and challenges practicing preventive measures and communicating illness symptoms. We describe the limited available data relevant for children with DDs and highlight other considerations for COVID-19 vaccination.