Dr. Jung continues to note that "children are still at similar risk as the rest of the population in terms of becoming infected; so it is imperative to consider them as vectors of the virus, especially since they are less symptomatic and thus more ambulatory, and less prone to prudent hygiene habits."
With new information and findings daily, the situation could still evolve. Dr. Jung recommends following CDC guidelines and to be more vigilant with those who have high risk such as those over 60 years or have compromised immune systems.
Kids may be developing less severe symptoms, but does that have any potential impact on the possibility of reinfection?
No one knows for sure, but most children likely develop at least short-term immunity to the specific Coronavirus that causes COVID-19. But just as the flu can mutate, so could COVID-19, which would then make an individual susceptible to reacquiring the infection.
Why do children seem less affected by COVID-19?
No one is certain why this is happening, but the likely reason is that every winter season there are several non-COVID-19 Coronaviruses circulating that children are highly prone to catching. Their frequent exposure to these other Coronaviruses likely offers them some level of immunity that adults may not have. There are likely other contributing factors but this is probably the biggest one.
Are there steps you can take to keep your kids safe from COVID-19?
There is likely little risk to children at this time from COVID-19. The more important factor is that they are likely vectors of transmission. Thus, it is important to consider their contact with grandparents and people in their lives with chronic medical conditions; for the sake of those around them, social distancing and careful personal hygiene is crucial to controlling the spread of the illness and reducing the likelihood of our medical system becoming overwhelmed with COVID-19 cases.
If your child does become sick, what are some of the symptoms to look out for?
Per the CDC, the symptoms to be aware of are fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Should your pediatrician also test for the flu?
Testing for the flu may be wise as it is unlikely that you have both COVID-19 and influenza at the same time. If the flu test is positive, then it effectively rules out COVID-19 - but not absolutely.
Any situations parents should avoid amid the outbreak (kids’ museums, playgrounds, etc.)?
Any public place where a large number of people gather and touch things is a sure breeding ground for COVID-19. Ideally, these type of venues should be avoided until further notice from public health officials.
What should parents be wiping down with disinfectant wipes during the Coronavirus 2019 outbreak?
Thus far, it appears children are not at serious risk from COVID-19, but they are likely vectors of the virus. As such, any contact between children and the elderly/chronically ill should be carefully managed. Minimizing social contact and play dates will help reduce the risk of germ transmission - this is probably the most important thing.
If children are out, have them wash their hands frequently and use hand sanitizer on a regular basis when hand washing is not practical/feasible.
If children share a home with the elderly or chronically ill, wipe down the home regularly. Anything that is frequently touched should be cleaned (for example: tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks) with household cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants that are appropriate for the surface, following label instructions. For disinfection, diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective.
Should parents request prescriptions for their kids in advance right now, and if so, what's a good supply?
Any quarantine will last a minimum of 14 days should it be required. As such, should a family need to self-quarantine, a minimum amount of prescription medication to have on hand would be a 2-week supply; however, a 1 to 2-month supply would be more prudent and practical.
Peter Jung, MD, is board certified in pediatrics and is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Jung is part of Blue Fish Pediatrics, a private practice group he founded in 2004 which has grown to include 27 providers in seven Houston-area locations. He is the author of What to Know Before Seeing Your Pediatrician and What to Know Before Having Your Baby.
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