Infection mild but whole families hit

Dr. Rajath Athreya

Although the positivity rates tested among children is yet to show a marked increase, we are seeing more children with symptoms than in the past. Highly transmissible omicron variant is resulting in entire family getting infected. A milder, shorter illness with upper respiratory tract symptoms: sore throat, mild cough but not lung involvement (needing oxygen or hospitalization) is being observed. Among children high fever of sudden onset, headaches and sore throat are main symptoms. Fortunately, they are making a quick recovery at home. Very few of them are in need of a hospital stay for a shorter period.

Families are to be supported well to look after these children safely at home. Some parents worry if children were the source as they developed fever earlier than adults in the family. Omicron has a short incubation period and it is hard to say who got infected first. Their worry centers around how to keep children safe? How to take care of them at home? When can they be with other children? Very young kids cannot be isolated on their own– how to stay safe around them?

On developing fever, aches and pains, sore throat or runny nose, start isolating yourselves at home and get tested for COVID. Avail tele consultation. Adults and older children should wear three ply masks. Ensure you wash hands frequently, clean surfaces often and keep rooms well ventilated. Children should be under the direct care of parents or guardians. Simple medications: paracetamol for fever and antihistamines or cough syrups will suffice for most children. Plenty of fluids will keep the child hydrated. Red flags like fast breathing, oxygen saturation <94%, severe lethargy, inability to eat and drink, young infants not passing urine for more than 6 hours, drowsiness and seizures (fits) or fever lasting more than 3 days warrant urgent medical attention. Seven days after testing positive and after a symptom free period of 3 days home isolation can end but it is essential to continue to wear mask around people. As a preventive measure, parents should avoid taking children to gatherings in closed places for social, recreational, or religious purposes.

(Dr. Rajath Athreya, Senior Consultant and HOD – Paediatrics & Neonatology)