What should I do if my child gets coronavirus?

As a parent, part of your job includes worrying about your children. And by now, we’re sure you have heard of coronavirus, or COVID-19, and it may seem scary. But right now, we would like to stress that you do not panic.

If your child feels sick in the coming weeks (or right now), do not assume they have COVID-19. It’s possible they could have the common cold or the seasonal flu.

Learn the difference between the flu and coronavirus here: Flu vs. coronavirus: What’s the difference and which one do I have?

Steps to take if you think your child may have coronavirus

Narrow down their symptoms

Write down what symptoms you are seeing and when they started. This will help your healthcare provider assess for other possible illnesses like a cold or the flu before thinking they have coronavirus.

The coronavirus affects the lower respiratory tract and a person’s lungs. Look for these symptoms if you think your child has it:

Loss of sense of taste or smell.
Scratchy throat.
Body aches.
Headaches.
Cough.
Fever.

If you think your child has coronavirus

If your child does have the above symptoms, call their primary care provider with your concerns but stay home. We urge you not to bring your child to a clinic or emergency department without notice to prevent exposure to others.

It’s important to call first so that their provider will be able to help you take the suggested next steps to avoid spreading the virus.

Your primary care provider will be prepared to help you take the next steps in this process. They will lead you in the right direction in order to help your child feel better and not spread their illness to the other members of your family.