Coronavirus in Toddlers: This is How to Keep Toddlers Safe During COVID-19

Throughout the pandemic, we have continued to receive information about how coronavirus in toddlers differs greatly from coronavirus in adults and kids. Nonetheless, parents of course continue to seek out the best ways to keep their toddlers younger than 2 safe from coronavirus as New York continues to reopen (especially since the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend children ages 2 and younger not wear a mask).

Dyan Hes, M.D., F.A.A.P., medical director of Gramercy Pediatrics in Manhattan, says this is mainly because of a risk of suffocation. In addition, she says children at that age are likely going to keep touching their face when wearing a mask, which increases their chances of contracting COVID-19 (even though coronavirus in toddlers is generally exhibited in more mild symptoms, according to John's Hopkin's Medicine). This means families with young children need to be extra proactive. Here’s how to keep children ages 2 and younger safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus in Toddlers

COVID-19 symptoms in toddlers could resemble those of the common cold or the flu, similar to that of an adult. According to the CDC, Symptoms to watch out for include cough, fever, or a hard time taking deep breaths. The Mayo Clinic also lists symptoms such as a running nose, fatigue, muscle aches, vomiting or diarrhea. 

Now, children are no more likely to get sick than adults, according to the CDC. Their symptoms are typically mild compared to their adult counterparts. However, they can still spread the disease to other family members or people.

Only 10 percent of infants infected with COVID-19 become critically ill, according to John’s Hopkins Medicine. Reach out to your doctor if your child has difficulty breathing or catching their breathe, an inability to keep down any liquids, new confusion or an inability to stay awake, or bluish lips.

How can I keep my toddler safe during the coronavirus pandemic?

Dr. Hes and Caroline Stockert, C.P.N.P.-P.C, a pediatric nurse practitioner at Crystal Run Healthcare, agree that the most important steps to prevent the spread of coronavirus care are maintaining proper social distance and washing hands frequently.

Ensure you and your children maintain a social distance of at least 6 feet from other groups or people when you leave your home. “The more we can spread out from one another, the better chance we have of staying safe and healthy,” Stockert says.

If you want your kids to get outside safely, Stockert recommends putting toddlers in a stroller to get some fresh air. She also advises parents avoid bringing toddlers to a grocery store, given that it is a confined space where maintaining social distance is difficult.

When it comes to keeping hands clean, Dr. Hes recommends that families bring hand sanitizer with them on walks. In addition, make sure everyone washes their hands before leaving the house and then again immediately once you return home.