COVID-19 in Children
COVID-19 can cause respiratory and other symptoms in children ranging from mild to more significant illness. Because many COVID symptoms overlap with the flu, RSV, strep and common colds, it isn’t always possible to determine the cause based on symptoms alone.
Care for Kids provides pediatric evaluation and COVID-19 testing when appropriate.
COVID-19 Symptoms in Kids
Symptoms may include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose or congestion
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Symptoms can vary considerably between children.
How Can I Help Prevent COVID-19?
Families can take several steps to help reduce the risk of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses:
- Keep recommended vaccinations up to date
- Encourage frequent handwashing
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Improve indoor air circulation when possible
- Avoid close contact with others when sick
- Avoid sharing cups and utensils
- Stay home when sick and follow current guidance for returning to normal activities
If your child has a weakened immune system or another condition that increases their risk of severe illness, talk with their primary care provider about additional precautions that may be appropriate.
Pediatric COVID-19 Testing
Testing can help distinguish COVID-19 from other illnesses with similar symptoms.
Care for Kids offers rapid COVID-19 testing options when appropriate. Your child’s provider can recommend testing based on symptoms, exposure and other factors.
How Is COVID-19 Treated in Children?
Treatment depends on your child’s symptoms, age, medical history and risk of developing more serious illness. Many children with mild COVID-19 recover with supportive care at home.
Treatment may include:
- Rest and plenty of fluids
- Age-appropriate medications for fever, aches or discomfort
- Monitoring symptoms and breathing
- Additional treatment based on your child’s symptoms and medical history
Certain children who are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 may be eligible for prescription antiviral treatment. These medications need to be started soon after symptoms begin, so early evaluation can be especially important for children with certain underlying health conditions.
A Care for Kids provider can evaluate your child’s symptoms, perform COVID-19 testing when appropriate and recommend the appropriate next steps.
When Should My Child Be Seen?
Consider an evaluation if your child develops COVID-like symptoms, symptoms are worsening or persistent, you have concerns following a known exposure or you aren’t sure what’s making your child sick.
🚨 Severe trouble breathing, blue or gray lips or skin, loss of consciousness or other life-threatening symptoms require emergency medical care.
Urgent Care vs. Primary Care
Urgent Care is appropriate for many new or worsening COVID-like symptoms and testing needs.
Primary Care can help with ongoing symptoms, follow-up concerns and your child’s overall health after an illness.can help with ongoing symptoms, follow-up concerns and your child’s overall health after an illness.
Pediatric COVID Care Near You
If your child isn’t feeling well, Care for Kids can help determine what’s causing their symptoms and recommend next steps.
👉 Find your nearest clinic and book pediatric urgent or primary care at urgentcarekids.com/locations.
