How To Protect Children From Covid-19

Contrary to claims otherwise, children can indeed get Covid-19. While it is true that a majority of children do not show severe symptoms while infected, even young children can get very sick and die from Covid-19. Additionally, there is risk of long term effects for children who become infected. Therefore, it is just as important for children to avoid infection as it is for adults and seniors. Drip Hydration has gathered the facts you need to protect children from Covid-19.

Shielding Infants and young toddlers from Covid-19

Evidence has shown that, in rare cases, those who are pregnant may pass the virus to their babies. Pregnant people should be extra cautious to avoid infection. Children under the age of 2 are at higher risk of serious Covid-19 symptoms requiring a hospital visit, as explained by experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend extra precautions be taken in households with infants and young toddlers to avoid exposure to Covid-19. Parents who are exposed to Covid can choose how to proceed based on circumstances; the CDC offers the following guidance:

• If possible, an infected parent(s) should isolate from the household and have a healthy person (who isn’t at high risk for severe symptoms) provide care to your young child(ren) during your isolation period
• If this is not an option, infected caregivers should wash hands thoroughly and wear a mask at all times they are within 6 feet of the infant(s) during your isolation period
• Isolation Period for those showing symptoms is
  • 10 days since symptoms first appeared AND
  • 24 hours since your last fever without fever-reducing medication, AND
  • Other symptoms are improving
• Isolation period for those without symptoms is 10 days after your positive Covid-19 test

Considerations for children and teens

Providing clear guidance and information is a powerful tool to curb the virus spread among teens and protect children from Covid-19. The CDC provides the following guidance and resources for parents trying to cope in the “new normal”:

• Teach and encourage children and teens everyday preventive actions like mask wearing, social distancing, and handwashing. Anyone age 2 or older should wear a mask in public or when around someone not from their household. (Anyone frustrated or confused about mask options should check out this full CDC guidance regarding masks and alternatives.)
• If making decisions regarding education and childcare, the CDC offers this interactive tool to assist families considering the risks. It helps you review factors like your child’s individual needs, the school’s communication and risk mitigation, and what you may need to facilitate remote learning.
• This CDC article provides instructions for parents and coaches of youths involved in sports. Not sharing equipment like helmets and gloves, enhanced sanitation practices, and staggered schedules are just a few ways the spread of viruses can be prevented. Administrators of youth sports can find further guidance from the CDC as well.
• Many parents may find themselves at a loss as to how to explain Covid-19 to their children. The CDC offers these tips on how to discuss Covid-19 with your children, as well as tips to mitigate stress and confusion for your children. One of these is to stay aware of the language used to discuss Covid-19 around your children to avoid scaring or confusing them through misinformation, or believing stigmas to be true.

Know the signs of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C)

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a condition in which several internal organs and/or the skin and eyes become inflamed. This is a serious, potentially deadly condition found in some children who had or were exposed to the virus that causes Covid-19.

Most children who are diagnosed get better with medical care, so it is important to catch symptoms early. You should call a doctor right away if you believe your child is showing symptoms of MIS-C, and in some cases, you should seek emergency care for your child. It’s important to note that not all kids will have the same symptoms.

Symptoms you should call your doctor about right away include:

• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Neck pain
• Rash
• Bloodshot eyes
• Fatigue

Symptoms you should seek emergency care right away for include:

• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain or pressure that won’t go away
• New confusion
• Inability to wake up or stay awake
• Bluish lips or face
• Severe abdominal pain

When should children be tested for Covid-19?

Just like adults, children should be tested…

• If they are showing symptoms of Covid-19
• If they have had close contact with someone who has a confirmed case of Covid-19
• If you are instructed to have them tested by a doctor, or your local/state health department
• Prior to any gathering at which high risk individuals may be in attendance

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• How To Get A Rapid COVID-19 Test For Your Kid
• When Should Children Begin Getting Flu Shots?
• 5 Benefits Of In-Home Covid-19 Testing For Families With Children
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