Managing an unwell child within the family may be challenging at the best of times. It is normal to feel particularly worried in the current situation and should your child show any symptoms of being unwell it is important to seek medical advice early. 

Should one of your children show symptoms of COVID-19, had contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case, or themselves test 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. This usually includes them staying at home and limiting contact between them and other family members, except the designated care giver. It is recommended that they have their own room that is well ventilated away from other children in addition to using good hand and respiratory hygiene. Whilst older children who are unwell may be able to wear a mask to limit the spread of infection this is not recommended for very young infants and toddlers as masks may have some air tightness and could be uncomfortable or even hazardous for a young child if left unattended. Make sure that if your health professional does recommend a mask you understand how to safely use and dispose of it. WHO also recommends using dedicated linen and food utensils for the infected child that are not shared with other family members and are cleaned thoroughly after use. Children might find this stressful and struggle with anxiety at all the news they hear about the virus. It is important to help the whole family cope with this and we have included some helpful advice from WHO for the whole family on managing this stressful time. Do speak to your health professional or counsellor if you are feeling overwhelmed.

https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/coping-with-stress.pdf?sfvrsn=9845bc3a_8

https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/helping-children-cope-with-stress-print.pdf?sfvrsn=f3a063ff_2