The emergence of COVID-19 has understandably raised concerns, particularly among parents of children with underlying health issues. Thankfully, early data suggests that the impact of the virus on children has been relatively mild, which is a relief for many anxious parents. However, the uncertainty surrounding how COVID-19 affects children with asthma is particularly concerning.
As a parent of two children with asthma—a condition that previously led to a hospitalization for one of them—I understand the fear that comes with the unknown. While it’s reassuring to hear that the majority of children who contract COVID-19 experience mild symptoms, I still worry about how this virus, which primarily affects the lungs, could impact my asthmatic kids.
To ease my worries, I consulted several pediatric experts to address my concerns about how COVID-19 affects children with asthma. Here’s what I learned.
How Does COVID-19 Affect Kids with Asthma?
Dr. Mia Carter, a pediatrician at City Children’s Hospital, explains that current evidence indicates that children, including those with asthma, tend to exhibit milder symptoms when infected with COVID-19. “Asthma is generally considered an underlying condition, particularly when it comes to respiratory infections,” Dr. Carter notes. “However, we currently lack evidence suggesting that children with asthma are at a higher risk for severe complications from COVID-19.”
Dr. Samuel Lee, a pediatrician in New York, agrees. He emphasizes that while asthma can complicate respiratory infections, the data we have so far suggests that kids with asthma are not experiencing the severe outcomes seen in adults. “The reports from regions like China show that children with asthma who contracted the virus did not develop severe illness,” he states.
What Should Parents of Asthmatic Children Know?
As a parent grappling with anxiety about my children’s health, I appreciated Dr. Emma Wright’s perspective. “It’s completely normal for parents, especially those of children with underlying conditions, to feel anxious,” she says. Dr. Wright advises parents to remain calm and take proactive steps. “Ensure that your child has an adequate supply of asthma medications and review their asthma action plan with your healthcare provider.”
In addition to having their medications ready, parents should also check the status of any equipment like nebulizers. “If possible, having a backup nebulizer can be a lifesaver if the primary one fails,” Dr. Carter advises based on her experiences.
Staying Prepared
Keeping an eye on your child’s asthma management is crucial. Follow the asthma action plan developed with your pediatrician, and make sure any daily preventative medications are administered as prescribed. This can help reduce the likelihood of severe asthma attacks, particularly during viral infections.
Dr. Lee also recommends ensuring that your child is up-to-date with vaccinations, particularly the flu shot. “While there are still many unknowns regarding co-infections with respiratory viruses, protecting against influenza and other pathogens is essential,” he explains.
Overall, while it’s natural to feel anxious during these uncertain times, the information from these experts provides a glimmer of hope. The evidence points toward predominantly mild symptoms in children, even those with asthma.
For more information about managing asthma during this pandemic, you can check out this informative piece from our blog. Additionally, for a deeper dive into pregnancy-related topics, visit Healthline’s excellent resource. If you’re considering options for home insemination, Make A Mom offers valuable insights that may be helpful.
Summary
In summary, while the COVID-19 pandemic has caused widespread concern, pediatricians are cautiously optimistic about its impact on children, particularly those with asthma. Current evidence suggests that children typically experience mild symptoms, and parents can take proactive steps to manage their child’s asthma effectively during this time. Staying informed and prepared is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of asthmatic children.
Keyphrase: COVID-19 and asthma in children
Tags: “home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”