COVID cases among kids spike in Colorado schools

The latest increase in Colorado’s coronavirus cases is driven largely by children as outbreaks at K–12 schools doubled for the second straight week.

Why it matters: The case counts are so significant that Children's Hospital Colorado is considering postponing elective surgeries for the first time during the pandemic, the Denver Post reports. The facility is at 72% bed capacity.

By the numbers: At least 80 schools statewide reported outbreaks affecting a total of 760 students and 126 staff, the Post adds.

• Colorado health officials presented data this week showing children ages 6–11 have the highest rate of transmission, followed by the 12–17 age group.

Between the lines: Public health officials identified school as a primary cause of the spread but suggested it's not the only factor because parents could be contributing to case totals.

The big picture: The number of cases — and hospitalizations — among kids is increasing nationwide, Axios' Tina Reed writes.

• Children now make up more than a quarter (26.9%) of new weekly COVID-19 cases nationwide, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.