PEDIATRIC POPULATION:
18. Are children more likely to get the COVID-19 virus than adults?
No, there’s no data that shows children are more likely to get ill. In fact, most confirmed cases of COVID-19 in China were in adults.
19. How can the infection be prevented in children?
Children should clean their hands often using soap and water or 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer. They should use tissues if they cough or sneeze, throw the tissues away, and then wash their hands. Children should stay away from people who are sick. They should stay up to date on vaccinations, including the flu shot.
20. Are children more likely to get the COVID-19 virus versus adults?
No, there are no data that show children are more likely to get ill. In fact, most confirmed cases of COVID-19 are in adults.
21. Are symptoms of COVID-19 different in children than adults?
They aren’t that different. Children have the same cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough. One child had vomiting and diarrhea. Severe symptoms are uncommon. For more information, go to FAQS for Children. (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/children-faq.html)
22. Are children at increased risk for severe illness or death with COVID-19 than adults?
No. Reports suggest that infected children have mild symptoms. Though some have severe complications (acute respiratory distress syndrome, septic shock), those appear to be uncommon. Children with underlying health conditions may be more at risk.
23. Are there any treatments available for children with COVID-19?
Treatment is similar for that of the flu – rest and fluids. There are currently no antiviral drugs recommended or licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for COVID-19 for children or adults. Children and their family members should try to prevent the spread of infection by covering coughs, cleaning hands often with soap and water or 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and staying up to date on vaccinations, including influenza.
