Kids and Coronavirus: What to Do if Your Child is Sick?
The global pandemic due to the novel Coronavirus continues to spread across the world. While the initial onset of the virus indicated that children are less susceptible to the virus, the last couple of months have shown us otherwise. Yes, the number of children who have tested positive remains much lesser in proportion to adults, but this does not disregard the fact that children can very easily spread the virus to people at risk, as well.
In light of this, we focus on what to do if your child is showing symptoms of the virus, based on the recommendations of the CDC and WHO.
Is Your Child Sick?
Before we begin, it is worth mentioning that children, on average show milder symptoms to COVID-19, but when left unaddressed, there is a potential for the symptoms to get severe.
Common Symptoms in Children
- Cough;
- Fever;
- Sore Throat;
- Headache;
- Chills;
- Loss of taste or smell.
However, through the course of the virus spreading across the globe, doctors have also identified the following symptoms in some children:
- Vomiting;
- Diarrhea;
- Rashes;
- Blurred vision;
- Dizziness;
- Joint pain;
- Red eyes.
Therefore, based on the recommendations of the CDC and UNICEF, we suggest that you watch for these symptoms closely in children. Especially if they have been exposed to the virus or if you live in the midst of the hotspot of the virus. It is important to remember that children may not show all the symptoms but just a couple of them. However, if you notice symptoms that are not on this list, the sickness could also be a result of an allergy, or a common cold, or seasonal flu. Best advised consulting your doctor as soon as possible.
Notice These Symptoms, Then What?
Do not panic. Children, regardless of how much they know about COVID-19, tend to get scared and stressed if you start panicking. Keep your calm, and release your stress when your child is not around.
- Speak to your doctor on call. Given the rise in numbers and hospitals overloading with patients, it is advisable to not visit the doctor in person. Give your doctor the full picture and extent of the symptoms, so they suggest the next best steps.
- Be it home quarantine or a hospital visit in the event of your child showing severe symptoms, let your doctor guide you. Do not take decisions on your own and do not self-medicate.
- The best thing you can do in the meantime is to give your child the food they require. Immunity boosting food and lots of fluids will help your child in coping with the virus.
- If you are under home quarantine with your child, make sure only one member from the family comes in contact with the child until they test negative again.
- Keep your child away from any elderly or persons suffering from a pre-existing condition in the family. Take all precautions to ensure your child does not transmit the virus to others.
- Most importantly, keep cleaning your house regularly with disinfectants.