COVID-19

COVID-19 is a relatively new virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold and flu-like illness in children. In addition to a runny nose, cough and congestion, there may be some achiness, and/or diarrhea. In very rare cases in children over five years, chest pain from heart inflammation can happen. In all cases, the treatment is no different than previous cold viruses and is supportive.

Currently, non-hospitalized children are NOT being treated with COVID medications as the overwhelming majority of children completely recover without issue. Of those hospitalized, this mostly affects young children who have trouble keeping their airway clear of mucus and a few older non vaccinated teens with lung inflammation.

Ultimately, vaccine prevention is the treatment of choice. Currently, the Pfizer vaccine is the only vaccine authorized by FDA for children greater than 5 years of age. We have all heard of breakthrough infections, but these are always more mild when occurring after vaccination.

Lastly, in a small group of children older than five years an inflammatory condition of the body called MISC has occurred 4-6 weeks after infection. This condition presents as fever, irritability, rash, abdominal pain, and possible chest pain. Treatment is available and successful.