Advice for children and parents during the coronavirus outbreak
Coronavirus (COVID-19) can affect children as well as adults.
Around the world, very few cases of coronavirus have been reported in children. Children can sometimes get the virus. But they seem to get a milder infection than adults or older people do.
Children may also play a big role in spreading the virus. That’s why they should stay away from at-risk groups, such as people over the age of 60. This is because older people, or people in at risk groups, might have a harder time fighting the virus.
Coronavirus is a new virus. We are still learning about it.
Protecting your child
The most important things you can do to protect your child are:
- stay at home – this advice is for everyone
- encourage your child to wash their hands regularly and properly
- clean and disinfect surfaces in your home and things people touch a lot. Coronavirus can live on surfaces so it’s important to do this. Don’t forget door handles and the toilet flush.
- follow advice to prevent your child from catching or spreading viral infections
- look out for symptoms of coronavirus – if your child has symptoms, they will need to self-isolate
Watch how your child should wash their hands
To find out more please visit the HSE’s dedicated page below.
https://www2.hse.ie/wellbeing/child-health/advice-children-parents-covid-19.html