Many children develop symptoms of respiratory or gastrointestinal distress, such as fever, cough, cold, sore throat, severe body pain, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and weakness when exposed to the virus.

While the new year has brought some hope in the form of vaccine, it is believed that it will take some time to vaccinate a big country like India. Additionally, the vaccination campaign will be in phases, and there is still some time available for children.
With the gradual opening of schools, it is essential that parents and teachers know what to do and what not to do to protect children from the virus, so that they can fight it.
COVID-19 infection in children is like any other viral disease. “We need to understand how the virus reacts and react differently in different children. Not every child is ill and not every child needs to be hospitalized. Close monitoring at home is important."

Symptoms of COVID-19 infection in children:

The doctor says that many children develop symptoms of respiratory or gastrointestinal distress such as fever, cough, cold, sore throat, severe body pain, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and weakness.

What to do if a child contracts the virus:

» Develop a plan for the protection of family and family members at risk of critical illness.
» Ensure that your emergency contact information and school pickup and drop-off information are updated.
» If that list includes someone at risk of the disease, consider adding an alternate contact.
» Find out when they come in contact with a positive case or someone with COVID-19, how the school will communicate with families and how they plan to maintain student privacy.
» Monitor your children regularly.

Home monitoring:

The doctor suggests that children should be monitored at home. It is necessary to check their temperature, pulse rate, oxygen level and urine color every 4-6 hours. "If the child is active between two episodes of fever, consuming enough oral fluids, and has clear urination, and if their blood O2 levels are more than 95 percent, they can be kept at home. Periodic tele-consultations with paediatricians can help parents stay more vigilant to warning signs.”

Talk to your doctor if:

» Persistent high fever.
» If there are breathing difficulties.
» Finger pulse oximeter indicates less than 95 percent.
» If the child is lethargic and weak.
» If urine color is dark or urine is less.
» Irritability or confusion.
» If the child is sweating profusely and his behavior is abnormal.
» If oral intake is poor.
» Constant vomiting and diarrhea.

Disclaimer: Information appearing in this material is for general awareness only. Nothing contained in this material constitutes medical advice. Please consult your physician or doctor for medical queries, if any, or any question or concern you may have regarding your condition.