Mild Cases and Recovery
As schools resume and COVID-19 cases among children increase, experts offer valuable insights to ease concerns. Most children experience mild symptoms and recover with symptomatic care.
Vaccination Priority for Children
Amid the rising cases, experts emphasize that eligible children should receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccination plays a crucial role in building immunity against the virus and preventing severe illness.
COVID-Appropriate Behavior
Experts advocate consistent use of masks, standardized sanitization protocols, and frequent handwashing. These practices constitute the foundation of COVID-appropriate behavior and help mitigate transmission risks.
Reassurance Amid Rising Cases
The spotlight on children contracting COVID-19 is due to schools reopening. However, past seroprevalence surveys indicate that many children have previously encountered the virus. Infections among children are generally mild and asymptomatic.
Vulnerability to Infection
Children are as susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection as adults. Despite the emergence of new variants, children’s risk remains low. Reports of isolated cases in schools shouldn’t trigger undue concern.
Safe School Practices
Global evidence indicates that schools aren’t primary drivers of COVID-19 transmission. Proper mask usage, ventilation, and sanitization are vital within school environments.
Balancing Risk and Decision Making
Informed by scientific knowledge, the focus should shift from fearing infection to understanding its outcomes. Severe cases and mortality among children are notably lower than in adults.
Vaccination Encouragement
Health experts urge parents to encourage eligible children to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. A history of COVID-19 should be considered, and any allergies should be discussed with a pediatrician before vaccination.
Supportive Measures Post-Vaccination
After vaccination, mild side effects like fever or arm pain might occur. These are usually manageable with paracetamol if needed. Administering paracetamol before vaccination is not recommended.
Also Read: Covid-19 Vaccine: How Cold Storage Will Be Next Big Hurdle For Vaccine Distribution