There are many steps you can take to prevent your child from getting the COVID-19 virus and spreading it to others. The CDC recommends:
Getting vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. A COVID-19 vaccine can be given to eligible children on the same day as other vaccines.
Talk to your children about these preventative measures and how you all must follow them carefully to help stop the spread of the virus.
Physical distance: Avoid unnecessary contact with the ill person who should stay in a separate room if possible, or at least 1 meter away from others in the household, to reduce the risk of spreading infection.
Wearing face masks. If you are in an area with a high number of people with COVID-19 in the hospital or new COVID-19 cases, the CDC recommends wearing a well-fitted mask indoors in public, whether or not you’re vaccinated. Don’t place a face mask on a child younger than age 2 or a child with a disability who can’t safely wear a mask.
Keeping hands clean. Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Have your child cover his or her mouth and nose with an elbow or a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Remind your child to avoid touching his or her eyes, nose, and mouth. Teach your kids to keep washing their hands until they have sung the entire “Happy Birthday” song twice (about 20 seconds).
Cleaning and disinfecting your home. Clean high-touch surfaces and objects regularly and after you have visitors in your home. Also, regularly clean areas that easily get dirty, such as a baby’s changing table, and surfaces and items that your child often touches.
Choosing safer activities. Choose outdoor activities when possible or indoor activities in well-ventilated spaces. Avoid activities that make it hard to stay 6 feet, or 2 meters, away from others. Limit visits with people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. Keep distance between your child and others when in public. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, if possible.
In addition, keep up with well-child visits and your child’s other vaccines — especially if your child is under age 2. If your child is due for a checkup and you’re concerned about exposure to COVID-19, talk to your child’s doctor about safety steps being taken. Don’t let fear of getting COVID-19 to prevent your child from getting vaccines to prevent other serious illnesses.
It is important to follow precautions even if you and other family members are vaccinated. No vaccine protects you 100 percent against infection and you may spread the virus to others if you are infected.
Following guidelines to protect against the COVID-19 virus can be difficult for kids. Stay patient. Be a good role model and your child will be more likely to follow your lead.