Human Coronaviruses are a group of viruses that typically lead to mild or moderate illnesses, like the common cold. Most people become infected with one of these viruses at some point, and symptoms generally last a short time.
COVID-19: a new coronavirus
The virus that causes COVID-19 is a recently identified strain of coronavirus that did not previously infect humans but now can. It was first found in China in December 2019 and has since spread globally, including to the United States. Public health experts continue to study it. While we know it is contagious, it does not appear that children are at higher risk. Children who tested positive in China generally experienced mild illnesses.
Symptoms of COVID-19
Individuals confirmed to have COVID-19 have reported illnesses ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms can include:
Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath
Body aches
Tiredness
Sore throat
Headache
Diarrhea
Pneumonia
How to protect your family
There is no vaccine yet to prevent COVID-19. The best way to avoid infection is by limiting exposure to the virus.
Here are ways to keep your family healthy and help stop COVID-19 from spreading:
Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If that is not possible, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Keep kids away from people who are sick, or keep them home if they are ill.
Show children how to cough or sneeze into a tissue (then throw it away) or use their arm or elbow rather than their hands.
Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces in your home.
Do not touch your face; also, teach children to avoid it.
Avoid traveling to areas with high infection rates.
If your child has been exposed to COVID-19, or you have concerns about their symptoms, contact your pediatrician right away.
How to prepare for the possibility of school or childcare closings
In the event of a local COVID-19 outbreak, public health officials might recommend closing schools and childcare centers temporarily to slow the spread. Schools may also dismiss students early if many staff members or students are absent. Working parents can plan ahead by lining up other childcare options or asking employers about remote work. If your child is in college, encourage them to learn about the school’s response plan for a COVID-19 outbreak.
Talking to children about COVID-19
There is a lot of coverage about the current COVID-19 outbreak, which can overwhelm parents and scare kids. Try to keep them updated without causing anxiety, and stress the importance of washing hands. This is one of the simplest and most effective measures to keep illnesses like COVID-19 from spreading.
Stay informed
Families should stay updated as experts continue learning how to prevent this virus from spreading in homes and communities.
Mary Watson
