With the mutant strains of coronavirus creating shocking headlines due to the rising caseloads every day, even children are not spared this time from the second wave of the highly contagious infection. New borns and kids as young as 4 months are catching covid while increasing an overall rise in cases throughout the nation.
Although there might be a few notable exceptions, but most doctors and experts ascertain that majority of children diagnosed with Covid-19 infection are still noticed with asymptomatic, and milder symptoms, that resolve quicker in comparison to adults.
The original virus usually caused a concurrent fever and/or unexplained tiredness, but with mutant strains of the SARS-Cov-2 virus coming into action this year, the tell-tale signs of this infection in children have evolved and unleashed quite a few characteristic symptoms.
Also Read: Covid-19: This Is How You Talk To Kids About The Virus, Precautions And Reassure Safety
Well, to have a better understanding of the infection caused due to the newer strains in children, we bring you a list of major symptoms to watch out for:
Symptoms Of Covid-19 Infection In Kids
Stomach Ache
Just like adults, several parents are even reporting their kids having gastrointestinal issues during this second wave of Covid-19. From sudden tummy ache, heaviness, bloating, abdominal cramps, all could be signs of the initial symptoms of Covid-19. Even loss of appetite should be noted and watched out.
Diarrhoea
In addition to gastrointestinal issues, even diarrhoea and vomiting are some of the major signs that are commonly noticed in children infected with the deadly virus. Although, there is no particular reason behind it, it could signify the gradual spread of the virus when it starts to attach itself to ACE2 receptors that are present along the lining of the gut tissue, potentially leading to widespread inflammation and digestive issues.
Also Read: Diarrhoea In Kids: The Role Of Probiotics
Moderate/ High Fever
According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children are less likely to develop a sudden rise in body temperature, but owing to the newer mutant variations of the virus, children could now record a fever of about 102 degrees Fahrenheit. While some may feel a moderate rise in temperature might be a sign of normal flu or seasonal change, a fever due to Covid-19 is most often accompanied by chills, pain, tiredness and fatigue. Although, in most of the cases, the fever usually tones down after 2-3 days (for kids, however, if it still persists for over 5 days, seek medical intervention right away.
Persistent Cold And Cough
Although uncommon during the first wave, but nowadays parents are even reporting kids having a persistent cough or a nagging cold signifying a sign of upper respiratory tract infection. Cough and cold can drive in as an initial symptom of Covid-19 alongside mild fever or gut issues which can gradually develop into sore throat. Other uncommon symptoms may include signs of inflammation, such as chest pain, or shortness of breath. While adults are at a higher risk of severity right now, parents need not panic right away since studies reveal that kids are on the milder side and respiratory infection may subside with proper medications.
Irregular Skin Rashes
Well, last year it was skin rashes and the shocking COVID toes that first came to be observed in children. While rashes and other skin symptoms also seem to affect adults during the second wave of the virus, they are still one of the commonest indications of early infections in kids with COVID-19. There is no denying that many kids are prone to catching allergies and rashes but being a parent if you notice sudden unusual red rashes, mottled-bumpy skin, urticaria (hives), or sudden discolouration of the fingers and the toes, without any reason, do not waste time and get your kid tested at the earliest. Unlike adults, kids can also develop severe inflammation that may cause them to develop runny and bloodshot eyes as a sign of Covid-19 infection.
Apart from the above given major signs and symptoms, many parents also notice signs like sore throat, myalgia (muscle pains, aches, pain in ligaments), rhinorrhea (excess drainage, ranging from a clear fluid to thick mucus from the nose), loss of smell, loss of taste and behavior.
How To Manage Kids With Covid-19?
If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs and symptoms in your child, do not panic and get your kid tested right away. In case, your child happens to get diagnosed with asymptomatic or symptomatic form of Covid-19, do not stress as doctors have repeatedly asserted that most COVID cases in kids are mild, and can be easily resolved right at home following some simple guidelines. Do not self-medicate your child, and ensure that you give your kid prescribed medications and multivitamins alongside providing adequate rest and plenty of hydrating fluids and a well-balanced nutritious meal. Make sure that you help your kid follow safety measures and protocols like washing hands, using masks and sanitizers during the self-isolation period.
