Covid may spark inflammation among kids
Paediatricians advise parents to keep children hydrated and physically active
With the weather fluctuating, paediatricians have asked parents to be careful about their children in case they show symptoms like fever, cough or vomiting, for they could have contracted the Coronavirus. They point out that a variant of the virus during the second wave has been affecting children.
Experts have also cautioned about the multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) that is affecting children recovering from Covid-19 or whose family member had been infected by the virus. Childcare specialists have recommended vitamin D tablets for children who have been barred from playing outside and cannot be in sunlight. They should be exposed to indoor fitness activities, such as stretching exercises and yoga. Further, all children must be kept well-hydrated.
Paediatrician Dr Shivaranjani Santosh disclosed that most children get only a mild form of Coronavirus.
They may have fever for a maximum of five days, sore cough and
throat, some cold; and mild diarrhoea and vomiting.
Some of the children may have a moderate disease with fast breathing and/or oxygen level being 90–94 per cent. These children need to be hospitalised.
Dr Shivaranjani said newborn babies can also get Covid like the older kids. But the percentage of babies getting the severe disease is more than that in older kids. Such babies would feed poorly and remain dull.
The doctor, however, maintained that severe disease affects only 1–2 per cent of children.
Dr Sudheer Charles, a paediatrician, said, “Don’t let children venture outside during this time as the weather is fluctuating. Make sure houses are totally ventilated. Provide children a healthy and timely diet, apart from keeping them engaged and happy.”
Dr Suchitra Dontamala, associate professor of paediatrics and neonatology, Gandhi Hospital, said, “Limitations due to lockdown must be countered by encouraging physical activity. The time of children playing with gadgets should be reduced. They must be given vitamin D supplements.”
She wanted children to be given liquids like water, fresh fruit juices and coconut water. Otherwise, dehydration could raise their body temperature. Overeating among them should be to be avoided and it should be ensured that they sleep well.
● DR SUCHITRA Dontamala, associate professor of paediatrics and neonatology, Gandhi Hospital, said, “Limitations due to lockdown must be countered by encouraging physical activity.