Learn what to do and what symptoms are related to COVID-19

In this time of pandemic, parents must permanently observe their children. The usual symptoms of coronavirus in children are fever, acute respiratory infections, and diarrhea. Other symptoms are fatigue, lowering of mood, chills, loss of appetite, and muscle pain.

Parents whose children have difficulty breathing, cough, sore throat, or just do not feel well, should immediately get medical advice, warns Dr. Julio Cachay, Internist and Infectious Diseases Specialist at Clínica Ricardo Palma.

“Children must receive prompt medical attention for proper treatment and reduce the risk of complications. Parents must act immediately. The treatment of COVID-19 for children is similar to that of an adult”, he adds.

According to Dr. Cachay, in the case of children, it would be recommended to carry out a molecular test for early diagnosis. This test identifies the disease in the first 5 days of incubation of the virus. In contrast, rapid tests are reactive or positive only 10 to 14 days after infection begins. That is when patients are coming out of the disease.

“While awaiting the results of the test, the child must be isolated, wear a mask permanently, have their own room and bathroom (preferably) and have contact only with his or her caregiver, who must wear a mask and respect the physical distance of two meters”, he concludes.

Dr. Julio Cachay
Internist and Infectious Diseases Specialist at Clínica Ricardo Palma