COVID-19, discovered in December 2019, quickly became a global pandemic. Millions of children and teens have since received COVID vaccines that played a crucial role in ending the pandemic, letting them return to normal daily activities.
Most families continue to stay up to date on recommended immunizations for their children. Childhood vaccines stop outbreaks from happening. And having the COVID vaccine available and covered by insurance has given families the choice to protect their children.
Many parents are concerned about COVID and want to get the vaccine for their baby, child or teen. Here's what to know about protecting your family and others.
Does COVID-19 affect children the same way as adults?
The virus continues to cause serious symptoms—even in children. Studies show that young children are more likely to get very sick from COVID and need hospital care. Pregnant women who receive the COVID vaccine help protect their infant during the first 6 months of life.
Certain medical conditions also raise a child's risk of complications from COVID. (Treatments are available for
some people who are at higher risk of getting seriously sick. Ask your pediatrician for details.) According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), these and other
conditions can raise your risk:
Symptoms of COVID-19
COVID symptoms generally begin 2-14 days after a child is exposed to the virus. They include:
Less common COVID symptoms may include:
fatigue
nausea or vomiting
diarrhea
Some children and teens with COVID, even with few or no symptoms, have developed conditions such as long COVID. And a child may have no symptoms but can still spread the infection to others.
If you are concerned about your child's symptoms, call your pediatrician right away.
Ask your pediatrician about COVID-19 facts
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends vaccines and safety steps to help keep children and families safe.
Misinformation about vaccines can cause worry for parents. Do not hesitate to ask your pediatrician about what you have seen or heard online.
Medications,
vitamins, supplements and unproven
COVID treatments families may hear about online are
NOT effective against COVID and can be toxic. Even if a product is useful for other health problems or
for animals, it can be harmful or make your child's COVID symptoms worse.
How to protect your family
Here are a few things you can do to keep your family healthy:
Get all recommended doses of the COVID vaccine for all family members who are eligible.
If your child is at high risk, avoid crowded spaces and keep a safe distance from people who may be sick.
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer that is 60% or higher alcohol-based.
Teach kids to
cough and sneeze into a tissue (make sure to throw it away after each use!) or into their arm or elbow, not their hands. Avoid touching your face; teach your children to do the same.
Clean and
disinfect your home as usual using regular household cleaning sprays or wipes. Wash stuffed animals or other plush toys, following manufacturer's instructions in the warmest water possible and dry them completely.
Stay home if you are sick.
Remember
Children with mild illness usually can rest and recover at home. If possible, the sick person should stay in a room
away from others, especially those who are at higher risk if they get COVID. Limit visitors in the house.
Monitor your child's symptoms. The goal is to make them feel comfortable, keep them hydrated and watch for signs of improvement. If their symptoms seem to get worse or you have other questions, don't hesitate to ask your pediatrician.
More information