As the nation continues to grapple with COVID 19, the staff at Town Center Pediatrics is here to answer all of your questions on how to prevent, screen for, and treat this serious health issue. Many parents in and around Northborough, Massachusetts, rely on Town Center Pediatrics for comprehensive health care and information.
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a specific virus known as SARS-CoV-2. This disease first emerged in December of 2019 and has since become a worldwide pandemic. While many people who contract COVID-19 are able to fight off the infection with relative ease, others become seriously ill and/or suffer lasting effects.
This virus spreads through droplets and other small particles that are released into the air when you sneeze, laugh, speak, or cough. In alignment with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many aspects of public life have been dramatically affected by efforts to control the spread of this disease.
Children of all ages can contract COVID-19. Kids can “catch” COVID-19 just as easily as adults, but researchers note they are less likely to become seriously ill. They can, however, spread COVID to others at home, at school, and in social settings.
Knowing the symptoms of COVID-19 can help you know when to bring your child in for care. Some of the signs that your child might be infected include:
As you can see, these symptoms are common among many types of childhood illnesses. If you are concerned about changes in your child’s health, schedule a diagnostic exam to determine if COVID-19 may be present. Rapid testing offers swift results and can get your little onto a treatment plan as soon as possible.
A great deal of misinformation has been shared online and elsewhere concerning the safety and efficacy of vaccines, including the COVID vaccine. The scientific evidence is clear: COVID-19 vaccines are safe.
Having your child vaccinated for COVID-19 will reduce their risk of contracting the illness. In vaccinated children who do end up getting COVID, their symptoms are far less severe than among kids who have not been vaccinated.
Research shows that getting the COVID-19 vaccine is not only important for your child’s health, it’s also a critical part of protecting older and at-risk family members, as well as the broader community from this serious virus. If you have additional questions or concerns, call the office today to book a visit, or schedule online in just a few moments.