Care during COVID-19 pandemic

Children and COVID-19 From the CDC Website

Children with confirmed COVID-19 have generally shown mild symptoms. They may have cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough, as well as vomiting and diarrhea.

It is unknown at this time if children with underlying medical conditions and special healthcare needs are at higher risk for serious illness. COVID-19 is a new disease and there is more to learn about how it affects children.

You should take steps to help prevent your child, your family, and others from getting sick.

• Wash hands often with soap and water, or if not available, with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Teach your children to wash their hands. Be a role model. If you wash your hands often, your children are more likely to do the same.

• Clean and disinfect high-touch areas in your home frequently--phones, computers, tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, and sinks.

• Limit contact with other people as much as possible for everyone in the home. Children should not play with children from other households. Playing outside is healthy and good for children, but it is very important that they remain 6 feet from anyone who does not live in your home.

• Limit travel. Stay home for all but essential reasons.

• Children 2 years and older, as well as adults, should wear a cloth face covering over their nose and mouth when out in public areas, in addition to remaining at least 6 feet from other people.

• If your child gets sick, especially with fever, cough, or trouble breathing, call your doctor and keep your child at home and away from other people.

Help your child stay in touch with family and friends through phone calls, video chats, or writing letters. Encourage activity outside while maintaining social distancing. Stay in touch with your child's school.

If you want some guidance on how to talk with your child about COVID-19, here is a great resource (click on the text to go to the article): Talking With Children About COVID-19