Corona-Virus (COVID-19) Disease & Children
Corona-Virus (COVID-19) Disease
Recently discovered in 2019, this causes Corona-virus disease (currently Pandemic across the world).
Symptoms of Corona-Virus (COVID-19) Disease
The signs and symptoms may starts appearing between 2 days to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
This may range from mild, Moderate or Severe.
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Vomiting and diarrhoea have also been reported
Mild to moderate symptoms: They may be similar to other respiratory illnesses such as common flu or chest infection.
Severe Symptoms: Some people may develop severe chest infection including, difficulty in breath, high temperatures, Pneumonia or may unable to breath.
Does children get Corona-Virus (COVID-19) disease?
- Based on current available evidence, children do not appear to be at higher risk for COVID-19 than adults.
- Some children and infants have been sick with COVID-19, but mostly have mild symptoms.
How to protect children from COVID-19 Disease?
The risk of getting infected with COVID-19 Disease in children is low if you follow the following recommendations:
- Clean hands often using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid people who are sick (coughing and sneezing)- use mask
- Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas (e.g. tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, sinks)
- Launder items including washable plush toys as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. Dirty laundry from an ill person can be washed with other people’s items.
Are the symptoms of COVID-19 different in children than in adults?
- No. The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults. however, children have milder symptoms. Reported symptoms in children include cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough. Vomiting and diarrhea have also been reported.
- Children with underlying Heart Conditions, Lung Conditions or Cancers may be at higher risk for severe illness.
Should children wear masks?
- No: If your child is healthy, there is no need for them to wear a facemask.
- Yes: Only children with underlying other major medical problems who are at risk of developing serious illness.
What activities Should be avoided?
- Schools: This is avoided as per the recommendation of local authorities. This is because, we have limited information about the disease and similarly, children can transmit the disease among themselves or their family members who might be at significant risk.
- Swimming Pools/Parks: This is to avoid the spread of disease.
What to do if you suspect COVID19 disease in your child?
- Call your local health provider, if you know your child have been exposed to someone who has contracted COVID-19, or if you have a fever, cough, or other concerning respiratory symptoms — just like you would otherwise.
- If your child has mild symptoms of flu symptoms, you can use Tylenol (paracetamol), ibuprofen, hydration with fluids.
- If your child should avoid hospitals/emergency rooms unless you think your child is genuinely requiring hospital review.