Hillis SD, Unwin HJT, Chen Y, et al. - In the present study, the researchers sought to provide new data and evidence on the magnitude of children experiencing the death of a parent, custodial grandparent, or co-residing grandparent due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They used mortality and fertility data to model minimum estimates and rates of COVID-19-related deaths of primary or secondary caregivers for children younger than 18 years in 21 countries. Globally, between March 1, 2020, and April 30, 2021, the authors estimate 1,134,000 children experienced the death of primary caregivers, including at least one parent or custodial grandparent. Orphanhood and caregiver deaths are a hidden pandemic caused by COVID-19-related deaths. Accelerating equitable vaccine delivery is critical to preventing disease. Psychosocial and economic support can assist families in raising children in the absence of caregivers while also preventing institutionalisation. These findings highlight the need for an additional pillar of response: preventing, detecting, responding to, and caring for children.