How to safeguard your child's health amid Omicron threat
The novel coronavirus has impacted our lives in many ways. With new variants wreaking havoc time and again, it is important that we stay on guard, safe and take care of the most vulnerable in the society.
Children, who are yet to receive their COVID-19 vaccines, are extremely prone to infection. While data has suggested that kids are less likely to showcase severe symptoms, they can still spread the virus to high risk groups like older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Having said that, parents must take all precautionary measures to keep themselves and their kids protected. However, if you test positive, have mild symptoms or have to be hospitalized, here are some steps you can take to help your kids and keep them safe during such circumstances.
Separate yourself from your kids and ISOLATE for at least 10 days
If a person has mild COVID-19 infection, they're likely to develop symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue and loss of sense of smell and taste. In case of infection from the new variant Omicron, scratchy throat and body ache could be a possibility. Many continue to remain asymptomatic. However, if you have tested positive for the virus, distance yourself from your children and isolate them in a separate room. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends isolating for 10 days after a positive test result.
Monitor your symptoms to see if it doesn't get worse
During the period of your isolation, continue monitoring your symptoms regularly. COVID-19 symptoms are known to fluctuate from time to time and what may not seem serious could lead to complications.
In case you experience shortness of breath, breathing difficulties, chest pain or other complications, seek medical help immediately.
Wear a mask at all times, encourage your child to do the same
Staying isolated at home does not mean you do not take necessary measures. Given that you have vulnerable groups of people at home, make sure to wear your mask and maintain good hand hygiene. Studies have found that the SARs-COV-2 virus can travel through air and is the most infectious in an indoor setting, which is why it is important that you encourage your kids to wear a well-fitted mask and wash their hands regularly.
Avoid sharing personal items
In case of home-quarantine, make sure you do not share household items with your kids or other family members. Ensure that you have separate utensils and other household items. To avoid any confusion, use disposables that you can throw away easily after use. Once you do so, do not forget to wash your hands or sanitize.
Call someone you can trust to take care of your children
If you are a single parent or both you and your partner have tested COVID positive, then call or inform someone reliable and trustworthy. You must contact a close relative or a trusted friend and ask them to take care of your child until you test back negative, are healthy and safe. You may also take help of a professional.
The Internet can be a saving grace during this time
Even if you're isolated and away from your children, make sure you stay connected and in touch. Request the person taking care of your kids to connect you with over call or a video chat regularly. This way, you're less likely to endanger them but also be connected at all times.
Take care of your mental well being
Being ill and away from your kids can take a heavy toll on your mind. You may feel helpless, extremely worried and may even have negative thoughts. That said, it is important to maintain your sanity through this time. Weigh the pros and cons and think of what's more important. Focus on recovering faster, rather than counting the days, which could make it more difficult to cope with.