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Although COVID-19 can spread easily between people, data shows that very few children have been diagnosed with COVID-19. There were 9 babies infected with the virus from December 8, 2019 to February 6, 2020 in China. It is possible that children have a lower risk of showing symptoms. Very few children are infected with this coronavirus. The symptoms of COVID-19 experienced in children are milder than in adults.
Why are COVID-19 cases low in children?
According to health experts, the low number of cases among children is a good thing. This is because children tend to wash their hands more often, cover their mouths, and refrain from touching people, where these behaviors can spread germs. This can reduce the outbreak of the virus that causes COVID-19.
In contrast, most people infected with COVID-19 are between 49 to 56 years old. Most patients also have a history of pre-existing chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, so the severity of the disease depends on the overall health of the person.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19 in children?
Similar to adults, symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, the infection can lead to pneumonia or breathing difficulties.
For this reason, it is necessary to be vigilant if there is a history of traveling or close contact with people traveling from COVID-19 infected areas during the last 14 days.
Prevent children from becoming victims of COVID-19
Although the number of positive cases of COVID-19 in children is still very low, this should not make us adults relax, let alone ignore prevention efforts.
What can we do to prevent our children from contracting COVID-19?
- Frequent hand washing using soap and running water for 20 seconds or an alcohol-based hand rub
- Practice proper sneezing and coughing etiquette, i.e. cover your mouth and nose with your elbows or bent tissues when sneezing and coughing. Use a medical mask if there are symptoms of coughing and sneezing, don’t forget to throw used masks in the trash.
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has cold or flu symptoms
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Visit the nearest health center immediately if your child has a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
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