How to deal with your child testing positive for COVID-19

Initially, it was thought that COVID-19 was affecting only adults, as the cases in children were not reported. However, as the pandemic has progressed, the virus has also started to effect children as well.

Thankfully, the impact in children so far has been mild, as opposed to what adults have gone through in this virus.

However, as parents, it is natural for you to feel concerned when you your child tests positive for coronavirus.

While most cases can be managed at home, if you feel as if your child’s symptoms are aggravating, then you should take them to a hospital like Medicare Cardiac & General Hospital.

Symptoms of COVID-19 in children

The symptoms of coronavirus in children include the ones that tend to accompany a case of flu or similar respiratory problems, like headache, fever, muscular fatigue, congestion, sore throat etc.

Other symptoms of COVID-19 in children include digestive problems like upset stomach, changes in appetite, and the characteristic loss of taste and smell. Some children might be asymptomatic, displaying no symptoms at all.

Furthermore, there are also lesser common symptoms of coronavirus that include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Some children can also exhibit COVID toes, a condition in which there is discoloration and swelling in the fingers and the toes.

There can also possibly changes in the sleep pattern of the children, alongside possible behavioral changes.

In certain cases, there can also be severe symptoms of COVID-19, which are more common in children who are immunocompromised, have lung issues that complicate their condition, are suffering from kidney disease, have neurodevelopmental problems or are obese are more likely to develop severe symptoms of coronavirus.

Protocol for COVID-19 care

The first thing to do if you suspect your child to have COVID-19 is to get them tested. Your suspicious might be raised if your child has been in contact with anyone who have been diagnosed with the virus.  Or, if your child is exhibiting these symptoms.

You need to then isolate your child if the test comes out to be positive. You should quarantine them for 10 days, which is the recommended amount of time for the child to become non-contagious.

You might have to isolate with your child, as young ones are not able to take care of their own, but your teenagers might be able to handle themselves well enough. Even if you are quarantining with them, if possible, have safe distance and try to wear a mask.

Since it’s a viral disease, it needs to run its course. You can, however, provide them with care otherwise. Give them good diet, so to fortify their body. Make sure that they get adequate fluid, especially if they have digestive problems. Antibiotics will not do you any good but do give them to your child if advised by the doctor.

For fever and pain, give them the respective medication. If they have congestion and clogged nose, they might also benefit from the nasal saline solution. Moreover, if the congestion is bad, you might also benefit from the use of a humidifier.

Similarly, give them comfort. More than the disease itself, the stress from the daunting name of COVID-19 can cause children to worry. Therefore, cheer them on. Let these days be about pampering them, giving them attention. Watch fun things with them. Do not allow them to look up dangerous and scary things that might panic them.

Consulting a doctor

You need to consult the doctor for initial treatment of course but it is also important to consult the doctor for when their symptoms are aggravating.

Some symptoms that qualify as medical emergency include breathing problems, extreme fatigue, lack of appetite or appearance of some rash. If you observe these symptoms in your child, then you must then visit the Best Child specialist in Karachi.