Luckily, the symptoms and effects of COVID-19 in children are mild as compared to those in adults. In one significant study, 0% of children had serious cases, there were no cases of death or intubation (requiring a breathing tube), and 8% of cases showed no symptoms. In contrast, 100% of adults in the cohort showed some degree of symptoms, and they were much more likely to develop a fever than the children were.
Still, if your child has developed the novel coronavirus, it is good to know the classic symptoms and susceptibilities so you can be ready to explain it to a pediatrician. Let’s talk about the common symptoms in kids with COVID-19, which health conditions can make COVID symptoms worse in children, and where you can go in Palm Harbor and the greater Tampa area for outstanding pediatric care for your child.
COVID-19 Signs and Symptoms in Kids
Kids with COVID-19 might have no symptoms, only a few mild symptoms, or many symptoms. Kids tend to acquire the virus via someone within the family, whereas adults tend to acquire it from the outside.
Possible signs and symptoms of COVID-19 in children include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Chest pain
- Loss of smell or taste
- Sore throat
- Chills
- Muscle aches and pain
- Discolored areas of the body, such as hands and feet
- Extreme fatigue
- Headache
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Loss of appetite
On average, these symptoms last for about 6 days after exposure to the coronavirus. Some symptoms of COVID-19 are so similar to hay fever (i.e., seasonal respiratory allergies) that it might be hard to determine which (if either) is present in your child. This is why COVID-19 testing should be conducted by a skilled pediatrician, so your child can receive treatment if warranted.
Conditions That Can Increase Severity of COVID-19 Symptoms in Kids
If your child has a chronic or underlying health condition, then this might increase their risk of developing serious symptoms if they are infected with COVID-19. These common chronic illnesses which can heighten susceptibility in children include:
- Obesity
- A respiratory problem (e.g., asthma)
- Diabetes
- Congenital heart disease
- Medical conditions affecting metabolism
- Medical conditions affecting the nervous system
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also reported that some children may be at a higher risk of developing a serious case of COVID-19, including:
- Children under the age of 2
- Children who were born prematurely
- Children of African or South/Central American descent
What Can You Do as a Parent?
You can help your children avoid being infected with COVID-19 by:
- Ensuring that your kids are vaccinated (if approved by your child’s pediatrician)
- Teaching your child to practice safety precautions (washing hands frequently, not touching their face, etc.)
- Keeping things clean around the house
Treatment for COVID-19 in Kids in Lutz, Palm Harbor, Westchase, and Trinity, FL
Here at Children’s Medical Center, our team of pediatricians provides premier pediatric healthcare to children. We offer COVID-19 testing, vaccinations, and treatment.
To arrange a consultation with one of our outstanding pediatricians, call us today at (727) 787-6335. We look forward to serving you!
