The coronavirus spares most kids. These theories may help explain why.

Experts weigh in on the biological reasons children could be better protected from severe cases of COVID-19.

Across geographies, genders, and occupations, the new coronavirus is an indiscriminate infector. COVID-19 appears to plague people ubiquitously—including children who, despite hopeful early reports, do not seem more immune to the virus. The latest figures from China, where the outbreak began last year, suggest that those under the age of 18 may contract the pathogen at comparable rates to adults.

But a mysterious semblance of mercy remains: After being infected, kids seem less likely to fall seriously ill, with more than 90 percent of pediatric cases presenting as moderate, mild, or without symptoms entirely. This youthful resilience has been seen in infectious diseases before, such as chickenpox.

At this point, individuals with notable symptoms make up the bulk

Unlock this story for free
Create an account to read the full story and get unlimited access to hundreds of Nat Geo articles.

Unlock this story for free

Want the full story? Sign up to keep reading and unlock hundreds of Nat Geo articles for free.
Already have an account?
SIGN IN

Read This Next

What bacteria lurk in your city? Consult the bees.
Is melatonin giving you nightmares?
Why are these orcas killing sharks and removing their livers?

Go Further

Subscriber Exclusive Content

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet