The symptoms of COVID-19 appear to be similar in children and adults. Children with confirmed COVID-19 generally have mild, cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough. Vomiting and diarrhea have also been reported.
Health officials are advising parents to watch for symptoms related to a rare but serious inflammatory condition seen in children and linked to COVID-19, called Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C). If you notice any of the following symptoms, call your child’s pediatrician:
- A fever lasting more than 24 hours.
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea or vomiting.
- Rash or changes in skin color.
- Trouble breathing (call 911 if this symptom is present).
- Your child seems confused or overly sleepy.
Vaccination is the best protection against COVID-19 and MIS-C. Recent studies have shown that children ages 12 through 17 who have received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine were less likely to have severe outcomes from MIS-C.
Babies under the age of one and children with certain underlying conditions may be more likely to have severe illness from COVID-19. Studies are ongoing regarding how the disease impacts everyone, including children.
Be sure to let your child’s pediatrician know if your child has tested positive for COVID-19 or has been exposed to the virus. Your pediatrician will let you know if your child can be seen in the office or if you need to go to the emergency department.
Sources:
CDC: COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions
CDC: For Parents – MIS-C associated with COVID-19
CDC: MIS-C and COVID-19
AAP: MIS-C and COVID-19