COVID-related questions
A: The most common short-term symptoms for children are cough and fever. However, some children may experience more symptoms such as chest pain, new loss of taste and/or smell, sore throat, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, discoloration in skin, extreme fatigue, severe headaches, and nasal congestion. It’s important to remember that each child will react different and some may show no symptoms at all (asymptomatic).
A: Children who have had COVID-19 can experience long-term effects regardless of mild or severe infection. The most common long-term effects among children include tiredness or fatigue, headache, trouble sleeping, trouble concentrating, muscle and joint pain, and/or cough.
A: Studies have shown that immunocompromised children are at no greater risk at contracting COVID-19 than other children and young adults. However, research suggests that the severity of illness might be greater for those with underlying conditions such as obesity, severe neuro-disability, and chronic respiratory and cardiac conditions.
Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8590622/
Source: https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=3863&language=english
A: Similar to adults, children can be reinfected with COVID-19. Reinfections can occur as soon as a few weeks after first infection and can spread the virus to others.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/reinfection.html
A: If your child is infected with COVID-19, they will most likely be able to recover at home. Make sure your child is receiving plenty of fluids and utilize over-the-counter pain medications. If your child experiences more severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing, contact your child’s doctor and seek medical care immediately. Parents and caretakers should limit interaction with infected children as much as possible for 5 days after symptoms begin. Wear a mask during interactions and make sure to sanitize all surfaces frequently. After 5 days of isolation, if your child’s symptoms have improved and they have been fever free for more than 24 hours, they can leave isolation but should remain masked for the next 5 days.
Source: https://www.chop.edu/news/health-tip/my-child-tested-positive-covid-19-what-do-i-do-now
Vaccine-related questions
A: Studies have shown that there are no fertility or breastfeeding risks associated with the COVID-19 vaccine in both men and women. It has also been shown that receiving a COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy is safe and effective. Some studies suggest that receiving a booster while pregnant can protect the baby from COVID-19 infections in the future. Pregnant women are at higher risk of experiencing severe COVID-19 compared to women who are not pregnant. This makes it even more critical to remain up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations during pregnancy.
A: Be honest with your child about the COVID-19 vaccine. Let them know they may experience a slight pinch or pressure from the needle. Focus on the positives of the vaccine and how it will help keep themselves and their loved ones healthy. Bring something comforting and soothing to your child’s appointment and have a small reward for them to look forward to after the appointment. For younger children, it may be helpful to play out the vaccine appointment beforehand. If your child experiences side effects from the vaccine, give them plenty of fluids and use over the counter pain medication.
Source: https://www.aha.org/vaccine-stories/tips-preparing-children-ages-5-11-covid-19-vaccination