Beware of Corona Virus infections in children

Although the case of Corona virus infections in children is relatively rare, parents should still be aware of it. It is important for parents to recognize the precautions and what are the symptoms that could indicate a child infected with Corona virus.

Corona virus infection, also known as COVID-19, is a disease that attacks the respiratory system. COVID-19 sufferers are so far mostly adults. However, cases in children have also been reported, including in infants.

Identify the symptoms of Corona Virus infection in children

Until now, there is still no specific symptom that can be a marker of Corona virus infection in children. The reason, the symptoms of COVID-19 in children tend to be mild like ordinary colds, or even can be without symptoms. The symptoms of Corona virus infection that can appear in children include:

Fever

Colds

Cough

Shortness of breath

In addition, symptoms of indigestion, such as vomiting and diarrhea, can also occur even though it is very rare. Although generally mild, symptoms in children can also develop into sepsis shock and acute respiratory distress syndrome or acute breath failure that is very dangerous.

If you suspect that a minor has symptoms or have just invited the liver to travel to a country infected with Corona viruses, such as China, South Korea, or Italy.

How to prevent Corona Virus infection in children

The Corona Virus (SARS-CoV-2) has attacked tens of thousands of people in different countries and ate thousands of casualties. We have also confirmed that there are 2 Indonesian citizens who positively infected COVID-19.

The following is a way to prevent the infection of Corona or COVID-19 viruses that parents can apply to children:

1. Teach the child to wash their hands properly

Teach your child to wash your hands with flowing water and soap, for at least 20 seconds. Make sure it washes all parts of the hands, including the back of hands, between fingers, and nail tips.

Familiarize the child to wash his hands regularly, especially before and after meals, after touching the animal, as well as after coughing or sneezing.

You can also provide a hand sanitizer with alcohol content of at least 60% in the school bag to use when there is no water and soap when you need to wash your hands.

2. Familiarize your child using masks

The use of masks can also prevent the transmission of Corona viruses in children, although it is not as effective as the use of masks in sick people to prevent the spread of disease to others.

Choose a mask that is suitable for children and encourage the child to wear a mask when he is near the sick person. Don't forget to teach her how to wear the right mask and remind her to always wash your hands before and after touching the mask.

3. Give children nutritious food

Nutrient intake rich in vegetables and high-fruits beta carotene, such as carrots and oranges, is known to strengthen the child's immune system to fight infections, including the Corona virus infection.

To build strong body resistance to prevent the child's Corona virus infection, do not forget to fulfill their nutritional needs. In addition, make sure the food given to the little one is cooked to maturity.

4. Encourage children to exercise regularly

Not only does it maintain fitness, exercising can strengthen the body's endurance to fight infections. Therefore, invite the little ones to exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes a day.

Choose a sport your little liked. Any sport and anywhere, as long as it is done with routine and make the body of the child actively moving, can be an effective way to preserve its health and protect it from the Corona virus infection.

In addition to applying the above, remind the child to close the mouth with tissue when sneezing or coughing, and not touching the eyes, nose, and mouth before washing the hands.

Prevention of Corona virus infections in children is actually the same as prevention in adults. However, child disease protection also needs to be supplemented by supplementing its immunisations. Although there have been no special vaccinations for Corona viruses, make sure that your little one gets a complete basic immunization and is on schedule.

If the child shows symptoms of flu and fever, you should let him rest at home and do not take him to school. Immediately take the little one to the doctor to get a proper examination and treatment.