It is natural for parents to worry how best to protect their child whilst still giving them all the care and attention they need. If you or a member of your household are showing symptoms of COVID-19 or have had contact with a confirmed positive COVID-19 case it is important to seek medical attention early. 

Generally, the best way to ensure that you are keeping your children and other family members safe from spreading infection is by limiting your contact with them and maintaining good hand and respiratory hygiene to limit the risk of infection. However, Unicef reminds us that ‘keeping babies close and responding to their need for food, love and comfort are all essential for babies’ wellbeing’ and also that of the caregiver. To nonetheless minimize the risk of your baby becoming infected it may be required that you wear a mask when being close to your baby to reduce the risk of spreading the disease, but make sure you are aware of how to use and dispose of it safely and always keep good hand and respiratory hygiene as well. This includes trying to avoid coughing and sneezing when close to your baby. Should you have tested positive for COVID-19 and are being cared for at home it is important to follow the advised isolation protocol by your healthcare provider and WHO. Breastfeeding mothers are encouraged to continue feeding their child with special precautions in place. This may be a very challenging time, so do make sure that you seek support from your counsellor or health professional if you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to manage the situation.