As children head back to school, it can be a nerve-wracking time for parents. Schools and daycares have been considered germ cesspools for ages, and in the midst of a global pandemic – can feel like the ultimate danger zone.

How will you recognize if your child has COVID-19?

First – don’t panic. Even if your child does contract COVID-19, children typically have less severe illness compared to adults. It is important to watch for the symptoms, even if they are mild, so that you can appropriately quarantine and take protective measures at home.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19 in children?

The symptoms of COVID-19 in children are similar to those for adults. Signs or symptoms include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Cough
• Nasal congestion
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting
• Poor appetite or poor feeding

Is COVID-19 serious for children?

Current data suggests that children are less likely to develop serious complications from COVID-19 than adults. However, there is still a chance that serious illnesses, such as respiratory failure, shock, acute renal failure, and multi-organ system failure could occur due to a COVID-19 infection.

Taking the proper safety precautions, getting tested if any symptoms occur, and following medical advice regarding isolation are the best ways to keep you and your family safe from COVID-19.

Can I tell if my child has COVID-19 from their symptoms?

The list of symptoms for COVID-19 are similar to many other illnesses. Additionally, many children may only have a couple of symptoms, and they may be mild. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 in children are cough and fever.

COVID-19 Swab Testing in Paramus, NJ

The best way to tell if your child has a COVID-19 infection is for he or she to be tested. If your child is exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19, especially if they have been around large groups, such as at school, or around others with positive COVID-19 diagnoses, take them to be tested. AFC Urgent Care Paramus offers testing seven days a week to Visit AFC Urgent Care Paramus for COVID-19 testing and pediatric urgent care. For more information, please call 201-262-2010.