How to protect children from the second wave of the coronavirus
The second wave of coronavirus is causing an increase in cases. More particularly, India's B.1.1.7 and variant B.1.617 are also said to be quite scary to children, who have largely saved during the pandemic. As schools were opened in India and other countries too, there have been increasing reports of children contracting the virus, pushing for a repeat of the closures. The only positive side experts discovered early in the pandemic was that it did not affect children the way it did adults. Younger people were less likely to become seriously ill, and most children had very mild symptoms or were completely asymptomatic, although they could still be carriers. But this time that comfort of 'at least our children are safe' no longer seems to apply as it did before. As cases rose in late March and the 'second wave' was officially declared, it also became clear quickly that COVID was affecting children much more.
How to keep your children safe during the second wave of COVID-19
The second wave of coronavirus has taken India's healthcare infrastructure by surprise. It impacts the most vulnerable in society, but the new mutations circulating in the country affect even children. Therefore, we must educate ourselves about the deadly virus and learn about the different ways we can prevent it. This will protect us and ensure the safety of our children, who are still unaware of the implications of the pandemic.
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Book an AppointmentSymptoms to watch out for
Rash, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, persistent fever, increased breathing problems, and dry cough are all symptoms seen in children. Children seem to spread the virus fairly quickly, but the greatest precautions must be taken as we are not sure of its impact on them.
It is recommended to see a doctor and get tested for COVID if your child shows any symptoms. Follow safety guidelines for masking, disinfecting, and maintaining social distancing.
Are children of all ages at a higher risk?
COVID doesn't see an age difference. Children as young as 1 or 16 can become infected with the virus. There have also been cases in which newborn children have tested positive for coronavirus, having contracted the virus from their mothers at the time of birth.
However, the only difference that may be possible is the difference in severity. Children suffering from fragile immunity, chronic diseases may be more susceptible to complications associated with COVID, including MIS-C.
Tips to protect children from COVID:
Keep distance:
- Maintain social distancing
- Refrain from coming into contact with visitors
- There is no outdoor playtime for children or to meet friends. Encourage them to play indoor games and organize virtual get-togethers with friends
- Wear the mask correctly and not under the nose in public places
Personal hygiene:
- Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and face
- Wash and disinfect your hands at frequent intervals
- When sneezing or coughing, cover your face and mouth
- Stay home if you are not feeling well, to avoid spreading germs/infections
Home hygiene:
- Disinfect high-touch surface areas to prevent contamination
- Take off your shoes outside
- Use a garbage can with a lid
- Clean and wash food before storing and consuming it
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
Children are likely to experience worry, anxiety, and fear, and this can include types of fears that are very similar to those experienced by adults, such as the fear of dying, the fear of the death of their relatives, or the fear of what it means receiving medical treatment.
Children should follow the same principles as for adults for wearing masks. This includes washing your hands for at least 20 seconds if you use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, or at least 40 seconds if you use soap and water, before putting on the mask.
So far, the data suggest that children under the age of 18 account for about 8.5% of reported cases, with relatively few deaths compared to other age groups and mild illness.
Vaccines can cause side effects, such as tiredness, pain, and fever, but the vast majority last only a day or two and are not serious or dangerous.
Children with underlying health problems, such as cystic fibrosis or cancer, should wear a medical mask in consultation with their medical providers. A medical mask protects the person wearing the mask and prevents transmission from others.