It’s pretty common knowledge that COVID-19 is primarily affecting adults, but as more data becomes available about the virus, parents want to know more about the risk COVID-19 poses to their children. Understanding the symptoms and information about COVID-19 that’s specific to children, teens, and infants, is the best way to keep them safe and as healthy as possible. Let’s review the latest information the CDC has released regarding COVID-19 in pediatric patients.
Can Children Get COVID-19?
Yes, children can get COVID-19, but it’s less common in children than adults. Children can carry the virus and show no symptoms but continue to speak it to others. This is why it’s so important to ensure your children practice the recommended COVID-19 precautions to prevent spreading the virus.
Common Symptoms
Children typically have more mild symptoms than adults with COVID-19. The most common symptoms to look out for include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Nasal congestion
- Sudden loss of taste or smell
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat
- Gastrointestinal symptoms – nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomachache
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Loss of appetite
Not every child will experience all of these symptoms and the severity of the symptoms can range greatly on a case by case basis. If you have a young child who may not be able to verbalize symptoms well, take their temperature daily and pay close attention to any changes in the behavior.
High Risk Children and Teens
Certain children and teens are at a higher risk of contracting a severe case of COVID-19 than others. Babies under 1 year of age are at a higher risk than those over 1 year of age. Other high risk factors include:
- Asthma
- Obesity
- Heart disease from birth
- Immunosuppression
- Complex medical history – children with multiple chronic conditions
The list of conditions that may make a child high risk is long – it’s best to speak with your child’s pediatrician to learn their risk status.
What if Your Child Gets Sick?
If your child starts displaying symptoms that you think could be an indication of COVID-19, keep them home and call their pediatrician. AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale is a great option for same day COVID-19 testing and medical treatment 7 days a week and after hours when the pediatrician isn’t available.
Contact AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale today to get information about COVID-19 testing and to get your child’s seasonal flu vaccine!
