21 May, 2021
All You Need To Know About COVID-19 In Children
Authored By: Dr. Aparna C.
Can children develop severe forms of COVID-19?
Most children (90%) have mild disease. Those children with pre-existing major diseases such as those of the heart, kidney, liver disease, etc., or children with low immunity such as cancers, immunity diseases from birth, etc., obese children are at high risk of serious disease. Less than 2% children require ICU admission.
How can I treat my COVID-19 positive child?
It is ideal to take teleconsultation for your child from your doctor rather than taking him to clinic. KIMS cuddles offers tele consultation for children suspected or detected to have Covid. This will prevent transmission to others and also avoid the risks of traveling and waiting for your child. You may access information from authentic institutional websites such as Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) website iapindia.org. If any serious signs are present, child should be taken to doctor.
What is the guideline for home based management of children with COVID-19?
First and foremost, record temperature and oxygen saturation with a pulse oximeter if available at home, every 6 hours. If fever is >100°F, you can give the child paracetamol 10–15 mg/kg/dose. Give plenty of liquids. Give soft and light diet. Maintain hygiene. One may give vitamin C, zinc to boost overall health and immunity. There is no role of drugs like ivermectin, doxycycline, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), ayurvedic and homeopathic remedies.
When should I take my child immediately to the hospital?
The following symptoms indicate immediate need for hospitalization – 1. High fever lasting beyond 4 or 5 days 2. Decreased oral intake by child 3. Child becoming lethargic 4. Increasing respiratory rate 5. Oxygen saturation dropping below 95% at home (ensure proper recording with good displayed waves).
Can we continue regular vaccination after the child recovers from COVID-19?
Routine immunization can be continued 2 weeks after child is recovers from COVID-19 infection. If the child needs some higher medications such as high-dose steroids or tocilizumab which suppresses the components of immunity of patient, immunization needs to be deferred for 3 months after the medication.
How can I prevent my child from contracting infection due to coronavirus?
Like in adults, the bottom line is SMS – sanitization, masks and social distancing or stay indoors. Masks need to be worn by all children above the age of 2 years].
