COVID-19 is a viral infection that causes symptoms like cough, fever, shortness of breath, and sore throat. Both children and adults can acquire this illness, and antiviral medication may be necessary when symptoms are severe or if there is a risk of more serious complications occurring.
The good news is that the majority of children with COVID-19 experience mild symptoms and go on to make a full recovery in days or weeks. However, some kids have a higher risk of more serious complications, particularly those with existing health issues.
If your child contracts COVID-19 and has an existing health condition or other risk factors and is hospitalized as a result, your paediatrician may administer an antiviral medication. These drugs can prevent the virus from causing more serious complications and facilitate a faster recovery from symptoms.
While antiviral medications can help kids with COVID-19, parents should understand the restrictions on these medications. Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir are two antivirals prescribed to treat the effects of COVID-19, but they can only be taken by children aged 12 and older. An antiviral medication called remdesivir may be taken by younger children, but the child must be at least 28 days old and at least 7 pounds.
If your child is one of the many who will experience mild effects of COVID-19, here are some things you can do:
If your child has problems breathing, high fever, or other serious symptoms, consult a paediatrician right away to determine the next steps.