Unfortunately, after many months, parents still don’t have any universal standards of childcare during this pandemic. Not knowing how to keep your child safe and healthy is stressful, and we’re here to help.
At Nevada Pediatric Specialists, our experts urge you to proceed with caution, even though children seem to have an easier time dealing with COVID-19. We are currently seeing patients in-person at both the Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada, offices, separating appointments by wellness visits and sick visits to ensure your safety. Here’s what parents need to know about COVID-19 and their children’s health.
The mouth, eyes, and nose are all entry points for viruses into the body. Since kids are prone to touching everything and frequently touching their own faces, the best way to prevent transmission is by encouraging the need for frequent handwashing. Germ-free hands are even more crucial for kids in daycare centers or returning to school.
Set a good example, and show your children how often you wash your hands so that cooperation isn’t an issue. Your positive attitude will help keep you healthy while delivering a stable message. When soap and water aren’t accessible, use a hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol, and be sure to supervise its use.
It isn’t clear whether COVID-19 transmits to and from surfaces, but other respiratory viruses do, which means it’s safest to presume the novel coronavirus acts the same way. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a list of disinfectants suitable for killing the SARS CoV-2 pathogen. Use these products on frequently touched surfaces, such as books, railings, tables, countertops, doorknobs, and more.
Toys are an excellent distraction for keeping your child’s hands away from their face. Just make sure you use disinfectant to clean these regularly, too. Keep in mind that powerful disinfectants can be hazardous for children. Follow instructions for use, and store these chemicals safely away from little hands.
If you have children with asthma, they already have an increased risk of complications to any respiratory infection. There doesn’t appear to be any evidence that COVID-19 presents an increased risk of disease to children with asthma, but it’s wise to observe your child carefully so that you can react quickly if problems emerge.
Additionally, diabetic children likely won’t see an increased danger from the virus if their blood sugar levels are well-controlled. Use caution when glucose levels climb, however, because their immune systems suffer. Contact Nevada Pediatric Specialists if you need help with blood sugar management.
It’s essential to keep well-visit appointments even if your child isn’t experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms. Shelter-in-place orders may have prevented your child’s regular pediatric well-visit schedule.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that childhood immunizations are down, which means now is the perfect time to evaluate your child’s immunization schedule and discuss a catch-up plan with your Nevada Pediatric Specialist physician.
Though children may only have a small risk even if they contract COVID-19, they can still spread the virus to other family members who are more vulnerable to this illness. Continue following these safety guidelines and prevention measures since kids are likely taking their lead from your actions.
Contact Nevada Pediatric Specialists if you have questions about your child and the virus. You can call the office nearest you to get their regular health care schedule back on track, or book your appointment online today.
