Coronavirus symptoms in kids: New COVID-19 variant infects kids easily, here are signs and symptoms to look out for

May 21, 2021

01 Coronavirus: Here are some symptoms to look out for

The second wave of coronavirus has led to a sudden surge in the number of COVID cases in the country. This time, the new variant of the virus is not only leading to severe complications in adults but is appearing equally dangerous for the kids. As per the experts, the mutant strain of coronavirus can easily infect kids, which has raised concerns among parents as schools and institutions open up in parts of the country and no vaccine has yet been approved for use on kids.

Original Article

02 ​Rising number of COVID cases among kids

Reportedly, the new variant of the virus is spreading rapidly among children from 8 months to 14 years. The maximum number of kids infected with COVID are from Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana and Karnataka. Unlike adults, kids have a lower risk of exposure and even the risk of comorbidities is less. But it is essential to pay close attention to kids and look out for common symptoms of COVID that can be easily missed.

03/7Common symptoms of infection

According to a report published by Harvard Health, kids can suffer from symptoms that may be completely different from adults. Some may be asymptomatic, while others may develop fewer symptoms. The classic symptoms of coronavirus include fever, headache, cough and cold.

Kids may suffer from persistent fever ranging from 103-104 degree celsius. If the fever continues for 4-5 days, then it must not be taken lightly and parents must start monitoring their blood pressure level. Track the oxygen level with the help of a pulse oximeter and consult a doctor if it drops too low.

04/7Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C) in kids

Besides all other common and classic symptoms of COVID, recent reports have suggested an increase in the number of MIS-C cases in children infected with COVID-19. Children with MIS-C condition have come up with severe inflammation in various organs of the body, including heart, lungs, blood vessels, kidneys, digestive system, brain, skin or eyes.

05/7​Other uncommon symptoms

Apart from the usual signs, kids may at times showcase signs different to those of adults. These signs may appear minimal, but at present, they demand attention and diagnosis at once. Severe and prolonged cold can affect the lungs of the kids and extreme cases can even be a sign of pneumonia. However, even a stuffy nose can also indicate the presence of a virus in the body when it comes to kids. Red, cracked lips or bluish tint on face and lips, irritability, sleeplessness and loss of appetite are some other symptoms of COVID in kids.

06/7​Are kids able to pass the virus to others?

Most kids experience mild symptoms after getting infected with the virus. So, it is yet unclear if they can transmit the virus to others. It could be possible that they might be able to transmit the infection to others, it is also possible that their robust immune system controls the virus from spreading it to others. Nothing can be said with surety. A lot more research is needed in the area before reaching any conclusion.

07/7​How to protect your kids from infection

It is important to take the necessary steps beforehand to prevent infection in kids. Though it must be hard to make kids follow the COVID norms, right now there are the only available options to keep them safe. Take appropriate steps to protect your kids from severe infection.

Make sure they follow the basic COVID norms like maintaining social distancing, wearing masks and following healthy hygiene habits.

As COVID vaccines are not yet available, make sure you get the seasonal influenza vaccine, so that they can gain immunisation against the seasonal influenza virus.

Make sure their diet contains essential immunity-boosting nutrients like vitamin B complex, vitamin C, D, calcium and zinc.

Make them drink plenty of water and lead a healthy life.

Original Article: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/coronavirus-symptoms-in-kids-new-covid-19-variant-infects-kids-easily-here-are-signs-and-symptoms-to-look-out-for/photostory/82131178.cms

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