The novel coronavirus definition refers to a respiratory illness caused by a viral infection transmitted through droplets, and preventive steps can be taken to protect children from infection.
What is the novel coronavirus definition?
It is a disease caused by a virus known as “SARS-CoV-2,” which began spreading in late 2019. This virus is transmitted between humans during close contact, often through the air via small respiratory droplets. While most infected individuals experience mild symptoms, older adults or those with chronic diseases may face serious complications.
Ways to protect children from the virus
Parents can follow specific strategies to reduce the risk of infection in their children:
- Awareness and Education: Explain the nature and risks of the virus to the child to increase their caution. Teach them the correct way to wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the bathroom or coughing.
- Healthy Habits: Train the child to use tissues when sneezing and dispose of them immediately, and alert them to the necessity of not touching their face with their hands.
- Sanitization and Distancing: Use alcohol-based sanitizers with a concentration between 60% and 75%, avoid taking children to gatherings or crowded places, and rely on home activities.
- Immunity Support: Provide fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C (such as oranges, kiwi, and green peppers), encourage home exercise, drinking water, and herbal drinks like chamomile and anise, while avoiding sugars and fats.
- Role Modeling and Monitoring: Parents must adhere to the same preventive measures because the infection can be transmitted from them to their children, while constantly monitoring the child’s behavior to remind them of preventive measures.
Symptoms of infection in children
Symptoms in children are similar to those in adults but are often less severe; some children may show no symptoms at all despite their ability to transmit the infection. Common signs include:
- High temperature.
- Persistent cough (which may last over an hour or recur 3 times a day).
- Change or loss of taste or smell.
Frequently Asked Questions about the virus
Are children more susceptible to infection compared to others?
Sources vary on this matter; while some suggest children may have increased chances of infection due to their inability to follow prevention, other sources state there is no scientific evidence to prove this. In fact, most recorded infections were among adults, and children may be less susceptible.
How long should social distancing last for protection?
Social distancing is recommended for 14 days, which is the period during which symptoms usually appear. This period may extend for several months depending on pandemic outbreak waves.
Does breastfeeding by an infected mother transmit the disease to the child?
Infection is transmitted via respiratory droplets resulting from coughing or sneezing. Limited information indicates there is no evidence of the virus being transmitted through breast milk.
Are pregnant women more susceptible to the virus?
There is no conclusive scientific information, but pregnant women are generally more susceptible to viral respiratory infections and may exhibit more severe symptoms.
When to visit a doctor?
Immediate medical care should be sought when the following danger signs appear in children:
- Severe difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Persistent fever that does not decrease.
- Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, lack of tears when crying, or decreased urination frequency.
- Frequent vomiting and diarrhea for more than 24 hours.
- Confusion, agitation, or difficulty waking up and staying awake.
- Skin, lips, or nails turning blue or gray.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for consulting a specialist physician or obtaining emergency medical care.
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- More about Colds, Flu & COVID-19
Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team