A doctor explains new guidelines to prevent kids from contracting Covid-19

With the third wave of covid-19 lurking around the corner, it is important to understand certain guidelines that will keep your children safe.
prevent kids from covid-19
It is important to be cautious. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Dr Suresh Birajdar Published: 19 Jun 2021, 12:32 pm IST
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Do you have children at home? If yes, it’s important to remember that kids are also vulnerable to covid-19 now. That’s exactly why you must not miss these guidelines released by the government for the management of kids contracting the virus. Also, encourage your children to follow the covid protocol of masking, social distancing, and hand sanitizing.

Like adults, even kids are at a great risk of getting infected with coronavirus. There are certain guidelines issued by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) that are imperative to follow, in order to reduce the number of cases of infections when it comes to kids. Even kids will have to be careful as after the second wave, even the third wave is thought to be equally disastrous, and requires utmost care of children.

Stick to the safety measures given in the article and help your children stay healthy and hearty. 

Keeping children safe

Kids below five may not be required to wear a mask. It is essential for kids belonging to the age group 6-11 years to wear a mask but that has to be done under the supervision of the parents or other family members. Earlier, children below two years were not recommended to wear masks.

prevent kids from covid-19
Give all the support you can to your children. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

There is no data available regarding the safety and efficacy of Remdesivir in children below 18, so it is essential to avoid its usage in kids. HRCT chest scan should only be done when one’s symptoms tend to worsen.

Children who are on medication must continue taking them, in case they have any other ailments. Using steroids and anticoagulants should be done only under strict medical supervision in the hospital. Do not use them at home without the doctor’s knowledge.

As per the guidelines, parents will have to take care of their young infants and children. Those who are infected should strictly follow covid protocols like masking, strict hand hygiene, and social distancing. Give your children oral fluids in order to stay hydrated and see to it that they eat a well-balanced diet, consisting of all the essential nutrients.

prevent kids from covid-19
Be cautious and keep your children safe. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Older children need to stay connected with their families and engage in positive talk via phone and video calls. In case the symptoms of your children worsen, immediately contact the doctor and do as the expert says.

Moderately sick children should be administered oxygen therapy on an immediate basis. Also, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, especially oral fluids (breastfeeds when it comes to infants) or starting intravenous fluid therapy if oral intake is poor is a must

 A child can be given paracetamol as per the doctor’s recommendation. Antimicrobials can be given in case of bacterial infection, and care for comorbid conditions, if any.

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About the Author

Dr Suresh Birajdar, Neonatologist & Paediatrician, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar ...Read More

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