Infant living in Southwest District Health region first Idaho child to die from COVID-19

An Idaho infant living in the Southwest District Health region, which includes Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington counties, has become the first Idaho child to die from COVID-19.

The Idaho Department of Health & Welfare and Southwest District Health confirmed the death in a news release Tuesday; the baby died in October.

The Idaho Press reports that nationwide, nearly 900 children have died from COVID-19.

Idaho has seen 3,681 deaths from COVID since the start of the pandemic.

In their release, the two agencies said COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for parents and prospective parents, including pregnant women, who may also receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot.

The release also said getting a COVID-19 vaccine can protect parents and prospective parents from severe illness from COVID-19, which can help protect babies and children who are too young to be vaccinated.