COVID-19 & Kids: What to Watch For
Sponsored by Turó Park Clinics.
In the context of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, many parents worry at the first signs of cough or breathing difficulties in their child. However, in the middle of winter, these symptoms are quite common and can very well indicate a cold, bronchitis or bronchiolitis, known as the famous “winter diseases.” But then, how can you tell the difference and what should you do if your child shows signs of a respiratory infection? We spoke with a pediatrician specialized in pneumo-pediatrics, Dr. Laura Garriga of Turó Park Clinics, to understand what to look out for.
What Are the Main Viral Respiratory Illnesses in Children?
Bronchitis, bronchiolitis, colds, nasopharyngitis, flu and respiratory syncytial viruses are the most common respiratory infections in children. Of these viruses, bronchiolitis affects 30% of children under two years of age each year. Each of these diseases is accompanied by specific manifestations but there are also common symptoms they share—runny nose, fever, fatigue, cough—which are similar to the symptoms of COVID-19.
What Should You Do in Case a Child Develops Symptoms of a Viral Respiratory Illness?
In the current context, caution is called for. If in doubt, it is better to remove the child from the community (school, nursery, etc.) and seek medical advice. Depending on the symptoms, the doctor may request a COVID-19 test or may make another diagnosis. According to the French Pediatric Society, the screening test for COVID-19 should only be done when exposure to the coronavirus is highly likely. Because the test is unpleasant, it is not always easy to perform well in young children.
Are you interested in a telephone or video consultation? Learn more about Turó Park Clinics' telemedicine services in our article: Digital Health Care: Accessing Telemedicine in Barcelona.
What Are the Warning Signs for Parents?
In most children, “classic” winter illnesses will go away on their own after a few days with rest. However, if you notice any of the following signs, you should make an appointment as soon as possible with your pediatrician, possibly by teleconsultation, as your child may require additional care:
● Fever above 38.8° C
● Wheezing or difficulty breathing
● Lethargy
● Skin rash
● Continuous diarrhea or vomiting
● Dark urine
What Is the Best Way to Protect Your Child from Viral Respiratory Diseases?
The first preventive measure against viral respiratory infections (and COVID-19) is undoubtedly hygiene. Washing your hands regularly is indeed the easiest and most effective way to get rid of the germs responsible for the most common winter diseases. Also, be sure to ventilate the bedrooms every day for at least 15 minutes to clean the indoor air. To give your child the best possible chance to cope with winter viruses, also make sure they get enough sleep and eat well.
If your child has symptoms of COVID-19 or other respiratory infections, do not hesitate to make an appointment with one of the pediatricians at the Turó Park Clinics.
You can find out more about all the clinic’s services and book an appointment via the website at turoparkmedical.com and follow on Twitter: @park_turo, Facebook: @turoparkmedical, Instagram @turoparkmedical and LinkedIn.
Sponsored by Turó Park Clinics.
Originally published March 18, 2021, updated January 28, 2022.
