We currently do not know enough about COVID-19 to be certain of how it affects infants and children of different age groups specifically, but there have overall been less reported cases in young children and babies than in other age groups and generally children seem to be not as severely affected by the disease. Some people who contract the disease may become more seriously ill and develop pneumonia and serious breathing difficulties, but often those affected more severely seem to be older or suffer from other health conditions. However, we do know that it is possible for people of all age groups to potentially become infected and unwell and it is therefore important that you follow some extra precautions in your home and lifestyle for the time being to protect yourself and your family and also to protect those around you.

You or your child can catch COVID-19 from others who are infected with the virus or by touching contaminated objects or surfaces and then touching your eyes, mouth or nose. The disease spreads from person to person via small droplets from the nose or mouth which can be spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or exhales. Because these droplets can land on surfaces and remain there for some time regular handwashing and respiratory hygiene are very important in preventing the spread of the disease and protecting yourself and your child. Make sure that you yourself wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water before you handle your child and that those around you do the same. Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of the used tissue immediately and ensure you again follow good hand hygiene afterwards.

Young children may struggle to wash their own hands and babies will need your help to do so for them. Make it a playful part of their daily routine especially when coming in from outside, and before and after mealtimes, using soap and water or if not available alcohol based hand sanitizer.

Some advice from WHO on effective handwashing can be found here: 

https://www.who.int/gpsc/clean_hands_protection/en/

People may also catch COVID-19 by inhaling droplets directly from another person infected with the virus. This is why it is very important to stand at least 1.5 metres away from anyone who is unwell or coughing and sneezing.

To keep your little one extra safe at this time it is important that you minimize interactions with other people who might be unwell including taking them out and about to meet friends and family and attending big gatherings. For anyone who does handle and interact with your child it is important to follow good hand and respiratory hygiene. This may be challenging but is important for the time being as it helps to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. Make sure to also stay up-to-date with your local health authority guidance on this.