Children & Common Cold or COVID-19?
It’s that time of year again when our children develop sputum, snot and sleepless nights. Having a sick baby can be challenging especially with the heightened worry and anxiety of COVID-19. So, how do we know if they have COVID-19 or a common cold? When do we worry or get extra support?
What causes a cold and COVID-19?
A virus causes both the common cold and COVID-19. There is no medical treatment to get rid of a virus instead the treatment focuses on supportive measures to help the individual recover.
“Antibiotics?” I hear you say, unfortunately no.
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and can actually cause more harm in the long run if we take them when not needed.
The simple answer is we don’t know if it is COVID-19 or the common cold unless we get our little humans COVID-19 tested.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a highly infectious virus that is spread through droplets.
This means it spreads when we cough, sneeze, speak, breathe or touch a contaminated object.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Runny nose,
Cough,
Achy body
Sore Throat
Fevers
Fatigue
Breathing Difficulty
Decreased intake of food and fluids
Loss or altered sense of smell or taste
Many of these signs and symptoms are similar to those of the common cold. This is why if your child develop any of these symptoms it is best to get them tested for COVID-19.
What does a test involve?
In July 2020, my 3 year old at the time got sick. The only way we could rule out COVID-19 was to have a test. We explained what had to happen and let him know he was off to mummy’s work. My husband took him to the hospital to get his test. At the door he had a mask put on him. You could see in the photo he was terrified. Luckily Bunny was with us, his comforter. The nurse used Bunny to explain what would happen and then she was able to complete the test for him.
A COVID-19 Test although simple can be quite overwhelming for our children. A screening clinic or some GPs will perform this test for your child. A doctor or nurse will use a small (what looks like a cotton tip) swab to test for COVID-19.
This swab will be inserted in the back of your child’s throat and then up each of their nostrils. It isn’t painful however can be quite uncomfortable for our children.
To make a better experience for all try to prepare your child the best you can. Explain what will happen when they get tested (you will be surprised how much they understand). Demonstrate on their favourite teddy, doll or bunny (like we did) what will happen. Take their comforter with them and have a treat ready for them afterwards (they have done a great job they deserve it!).
What is the treatment?
Whether a Cold or COVID-19 they can be cared for at home, if their signs and symptoms are mild and manageable. Your local doctor can give you more information about caring for your child at home. More often than not, they will need lots of rest, continue fluid intake and a lot more cuddles. If your child isn’t improving, is getting worse or you are worried for any reason seek medical attention.
For more information sign up to our Baby First Aid, CPR and Health Education courses. Our highly skilled educators will help you to feel confident when carinf for your sick or injured child.