COVID-19

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious illness caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large collection of viruses that may cause a range of respiratory illnesses including the common cold and other more severe illnesses. The virus spreads through the droplets of saliva or nasal discharge that you expel when you cough or sneeze. 

While these droplets are airborne, your child’s chances of infection are low unless an infected person coughs or sneezes near them or if they touch a surface a sick person might have touched after sneezing or coughing into their hands. 

What are the warning signs of COVID-19?

Like other viral upper respiratory infections, coronavirus causes:

• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness
• Dry cough
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

COVID-19 symptoms usually develop slowly. It’s also possible to have the virus but not have symptoms. 

Around 80% of people who get a coronavirus infection recover without any special treatment and only one in six people with COVID-19 become very ill and experience difficulty breathing. 

If your child is high risk — they have asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity, or a compromised immune system — be especially mindful of the risk and practice social distancing and exemplary hygiene.

When should I come in for COVID-19 testing?

A fever is one of the primary warning signs of COVID-19. For example, if you get seasonal allergies and have a runny nose or sore throat, please don’t panic. 

However, if you or a member of your family develop a fever, shortness of breath, and other flu symptoms, like a dry cough, troubled breathing, and bodily aches and pains, call Pediatrics of Southwest Houston for advice and to schedule an appointment for testing if necessary. 

Can my child have the COVID-19 vaccination?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continuously update their vaccination guidelines on who is eligible. You can stay up-to-date with their most current instructions by visiting their website. You can also find valuable information on where your child can have their vaccine, which vaccine is available to them, and how many doses they need. 

The COVID-19 vaccines are very safe and highly effective. Some people experience flu-like symptoms for a day or two following their vaccines, but you can ease the symptoms with over-the-counter pain relief.

Once your child has received their vaccine, they must still follow state mask-wearing and social distancing guidelines.

For more information on COVID-19 testing and vaccinations, call Pediatrics of Southwest Houston, or schedule a consultation online for expert medical care and advice. 

*We accept medicaid. Pediatricians are affiliated with Memorial Hermann.