The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has become a global concern and its terror is not only affecting adults, but children too. Since the news of the virus dominated the media, children too can sense the endangerment in which the world is today. And just like the rest of the population, they are scared and have questions. This is why it is important for parents to sit down with their children and talk to them about the virus in a way that is easy for them to understand without frightening them. Lt. Col Dr Augustin Ndatinya, a senior consultant paediatrician, says coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) seems to be impacting children at lower rates than adults, and those who contract the virus typically have mild illness. He strongly advises parents to encourage their children to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by teaching them to do the same things everyone should do to stay healthy. These include; cleaning hands often using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitiser, avoiding people who are sick (coughing and sneezing), cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas for example tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, and sinks. He also encourages parents to wash certain items including washable plush toys as appropriate. “If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. Dirty laundry from an ill person can be washed with other people’s items,” he explains. When informing children about the virus, parents are encouraged to have an open, supportive discussion with their children that can help them understand, cope and even make a positive contribution for others, according to information on the UNICEF website. When starting the conversation, it is important for one to ask open questions and listen to find out how much the child already knows. “Explain the truth in a child-friendly way, children have a right to truthful information about what’s going on in the world, but adults also have a responsibility to keep them safe from distress. Use age-appropriate language, watch their reactions and be sensitive to their level of anxiety. Check if they are experiencing or spreading stigma and offer reassurance by making opportunities for them to play and relax, when possible,” information from the website indicates. All caretakers (parents, guardians or teachers) are advised to take care of themselves, for this is when they will be able to help their kids better. “Children will pick up on your own response to the news, so it helps them to know you’re calm and in control. If you’re feeling anxious or upset, take time for yourself and reach out to other family, friends and trusted people in your community. Make some time to do things that help you relax and recuperate.” The risk of a child getting the virus Based on available evidence, children do not appear to be at higher risk for COVID-19 than adults. While some children and infants have been sick with COVID-19, adults make up most of the known cases to date. When it comes to symptoms, Dr Ndatinya explains that the symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults. However, children with confirmed COVID-19 have generally presented mild symptoms. Reported symptoms in children include cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, cough, vomiting and diarrhoea. The medic also highlights that the testing criteria for children is the same as adults. Clinicians should consider the presence of symptoms, travel history, contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient and local epidemiology, and should rule out other potential causes of illness, he adds. “It’s not known yet whether some children may be at higher risk for severe illness, for example, children with underlying medical conditions and special healthcare needs. There is much more to be learned about how the disease impacts children,” Dr Ndatinya says.
