The child, who is Black and had underlying health conditions, died in mid-October at a Houston hospital. Genomic sequencing did not identify the variant of virus that infected her.

Privacy laws prevent the health department from providing any other identifiable information.

“The death of a child under any circumstance is heartbreaking. On behalf of the City of Houston, I extend my condolences to the girl’s family during this unimaginable time of grief,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. “This tragic COVID-19 related death serves as a reminder that we must get vaccinated, mask up, and get tested to protect our community during the Omicron surge, especially children too young to get vaccinated.”

As of January 12, 2022, there are 3,978 confirmed COVID-19 deaths of Houstonians. One was under the age of ten, seven (0.18%) were between 10 and 19, 1.2% were in their 20s, 3.5% were in their 30s, 8.3% in their 40s, 16.1% in their 50s, 24.2% in their 60s, 21.9% in their 70, and 24.7% were 80 and older.

Getting vaccinated helps prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death; it also helps reduce the spread of COVID-19. Since the COVID-19 vaccination began, nearly all Texas COVID-19 deaths are among people who are not fully vaccinated.

People ages 5 and up are eligible for the Pfizer vaccine while people ages 18 and up are eligible for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. Booster shots are available to people ages 12 and up.

With the very contagious Omicron variant rapidly spreading, the health department urges everyone, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a face-covering in public indoor places and crowded outdoor settings.

“While most children who get COVID-19 recover, this tragedy is an example of how our youngest can get seriously ill and lose their lives to this disease,” said Dr. David Persse, chief medical officer for the City of Houston. “Children who have underlying conditions are especially vulnerable to poor outcomes from COVID-19, especially when it comes to the possibility of co-infection with other respiratory illnesses.”

Getting vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 at health department-affiliated sites is free and does not require proof of residency, citizenship, or insurance.

The health department provides dozens of free COVID-19 vaccination and testing sites across the city. Sites and schedules can be found at houstonhealth.org or by calling 832-393-4220.

Houston’s Longstanding Tradition Continues

“The Buffalo Bayou Partnership Regatta is truly a rite of spring in our city,” said Anne Olson, Buffalo Bayou Partnership President. “As one of our organization’s signature events, it brings people to the bayou, not just to paddle, but to watch the race and take part in the event’s after party. It also provides much-needed support for BBP’s many projects and initiatives.”

Spectators are invited to cheer at the starting point and along the race route. At the finish line at Allen’s Landing, there will be hundreds of colorful canoes and kayaks, music, fun and activities from local businesses and sponsors. See photos from last year’s event here.

WHEN
Saturday, March 5, 2022
7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

WHERE
Starting Line: 7700 San Felipe St. (Just west of Voss)
Finish Line: Allen’s Landing, 1019 Commerce St.

REGISTRATION
$50 per paddler
$55 per paddler on/after February 19
$60 per paddler day-of registration
Discounts are available for BBP Members, military, and student ID holders.

MORE INFORMATION
The Buffalo Bayou Partnership Regatta is rain or shine. If a cancellation takes place due to severe weather or water conditions, all entry fees will be considered a tax-deductible donation to Buffalo Bayou Partnership and used in our efforts to continue restoring the bayou.

Trophies will be awarded to the top three winners in Teams, Recreational Canoe, Recreational Kayak, and Unlimited Divisions. For more information about canoe and kayak divisions, please visit www.buffalobayou.org or contact Trudi Smith at tsmith@buffalobayou.org.

Team sponsors are welcome to join the festivities and compete for the coveted team cup! For more information about sponsorship, contact Leigh McBurnett at lmcburnett@buffalobayou.org.

About Buffalo Bayou Partnership
Established in 1986, Buffalo Bayou Partnership (BBP) is the non-profit transforming and revitalizing Buffalo Bayou, Houston’s most significant natural resource. The organization’s geographic focus is the 10-square mile stretch of the bayou that flows from Shepherd Drive, through the heart of downtown into the East End, and onto the Port of Houston Turning Basin. BBP creates and cares for inclusive public spaces such as Buffalo Bayou Park, constructs hike and bike trails, and removes trash from the waterway. Buffalo Bayou Partnership also activates the bayou through unique programs, public art, volunteer events and recreational opportunities that enrich the quality of life in Houston.