More and more children have been infected during the spread of the Omicron variant of Coronavirus. Previously children who were only the carriers of the coronavirus are now at a threat of developing symptoms as well. Meanwhile, coronavirus infections are milder in infants and kids. The spread of the Omicron variant has escalated the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. The COVID-19 vaccine cannot be administered to children below the age of 5 years. Here are a few omicron symptoms in kids to look out for:
Omicron Symptoms In Kids
Fatigue being the most common symptom of all. Here are a few other symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Chills
- Headache
- Running nose
- Sore throat
Some uncommon symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Rashes
A recent study has also found that children are prone to developing croup. Croup is a condition during which the airway infection gives rise to a dog barking sound when your child coughs.
Also Read – Reasons Why Children Are Getting Infected With Covid During 3rd Wave
Can Omicron Variant Cause Croup?
Croup is a respiratory disease accompanied by harsh barking coughing. The infectious Omicron variant of coronavirus can also cause upper airway inflammation. Symptoms of croup are :
- Barking cough like sounds that worsen at night
- Hoarse voice
- Fever
- Runny nose or stuffy nose
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty in swallowing
These symptoms will subside on proper home isolation and care given to your child. Doctors prescribe giving your child paracetamol, although the coronavirus infection will subside with home remedies and also ensure to keep your kids hydrated. Some alarming symptoms to look out for are:
- Difficulty in breathing during daytime
- Bluish or grayish tone near the child’s nose, mouth or fingernails.
- Coughing that does not subside despite treatment
- Signs of dehydration.
These are some severe omicron symptoms in kids to look out for.
Is Your Child Eligible To Get Vaccinated? How To Protect Your Kids Against The Virus?
Now vaccinations are available for kids in India from the age group of 15 to 17 years. It is necessary to get your kids vaccinated as soon as possible. Vaccination fetches immunity against the infectious virus and deducts the risk of developing severe symptoms. Taking measures like wearing a mask at all times, maintaining social distancing, and sanitizing will help in keeping your kids healthy. It is recommended to avoid crowded indoor spaces where there is poor air circulation and non-essential travel. It is required to practice good hygiene and test often.
Outlook
These are the omicron symptoms in kids to watch for. As more data is being collected as to how omicron affects kids it is essential to keep your child’s guard up with Covid appropriate information and be aware. Children and infants are at a high risk to contract the symptoms as they are yet to receive the Covid vaccine.
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