A new type of virus known as the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has started making people sick across the globe since early this year. This deadly virus is known to have originated from a “wet market” in Wuhan, China. The first cases were diagnosed in people who visited a live seafood market in Wuhan. As we all know, this virus has spread rapidly and affected many people around the world, causing deaths and acute illness.
Coronavirus cases have been reported around the world including India where the cases are now growing rapidly. The Indian government authorities have ordered lockdown of more than 70 cities and districts across the country after the increasing cases seen lately. Schools have been shut down and other public places such as malls and theatres are also on lockdown. In this situation many parents are worried about how they can keep their children and family safe from this pandemic.
Here are a few things that parents can educate their kids about regarding coronavirus.
- Signs and Symptoms of Coronavirus
Fever, cough and shortness of breath are the main symptoms of COVID-19. One must be aware that not all flu is COVID-19 but in case these symptoms are seen after travelling to affected areas or after meeting people who might be affected then definitely one must get tested. This virus can be more serious and may lead to illnesses like pneumonia in some people. - How Does It Spread?
According to experts, this virus mainly spreads from person-to-person and through contact with infected surfaces that have germs on them. It can also spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. - How Can We Protect Ourselves?
The single most important thing that we can do to protect ourselves, our kids and our families is washing our hands properly using warm water and soap from time to time for at least 30 seconds. You may need to help your children in washing their hands thoroughly. For instance you could sing their favorite rhymes and songs until they wash their hands completely. Be sure they wash their hands after they come from playing outside, before eating and after coughing or sneezing and compulsorily after using the washroom. Teach your children to remove their shoes outside whenever they come indoors. Also, tell them about the importance of “social distancing”. Stop them from touching their faces and tell them to stop nose-picking.
To keep your house clean, you could use a disinfectant solution or phenyl that contains at least 70% alcohol.
It is very important to educate children about such issues so that they are aware and can keep themselves safe. Don’t scare them but educate them about the seriousness of the situation. Children have a very sensitive mind and therefore talk to them with simple, age-appropriate and fact-based information about COVID-19. Most importantly, assure your kids that you are with them.