There are fewer cases of children who show symptoms of COVID, but they can still catch the virus and spread it to others. In patients with symptoms, they may be mild, but there is always a chance of serious illness. AFC Urgent Care Methuen can provide you with the common symptoms and warning signs of COVID in children. If you think you or your family have come in contact with someone with COVID, come in today to get a rapid COVID test.
Common symptoms of COVID
Symptoms of COVID are typically the same for children as they are adults. In children, the most common symptoms are a fever and cough. Cases can be very similar to a cold or flu, but the following signs can happen in any case of COVID in children:
- Fever
- Cough, with or without shortness of breath
- Congestion or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Stomachache
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite, especially in babies under one-year-old
COVID can experience any of these symptoms, and it does not need to be all of them. If your child starts experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to quarantine for at least ten days after symptoms began and call their primary care physician. If you or your child were around someone who tested positive for COVID, a contact tracer may call you and advise on how to move forward.
Babies under age one and children with underlying health conditions are at the highest risk of developing severe symptoms of COVID. This can result in hospitalization or death.
Signs you should seek medical attention
Same as adults, there are certain warning signs your child needs medical attention immediately. Be sure to monitor their symptoms throughout the duration of the illness. Warning signs can include difficulty breathing, chest pain that does not go away, can’t stay awake when not tired, and blue lips or face. Your child’s primary care physician can provide you with answers to any questions on new or worsening symptoms.
What to do next
If your child tests positive or shows symptoms, the best treatment currently is getting plenty of rest and drinking water frequently. This can help build their immune system back up so they can fight off the virus. If they experience diarrhea or vomiting as a symptom, be sure they are still eating and remaining hydrated. Dehydration is a significant risk and can result in hospitalization.
The best way to keep your children safe from COVID is by teaching them the proper protocols. This includes washing their hands frequently, especially before eating, wearing a mask, keeping it on when around others, covering their cough and sneezes with a tissue and avoiding close contact with others.
For more information on COVID-19, call AFC Urgent Care Methuen today at 978-975-0700.
