What to do if your child is showing symptoms of Covid after latest Government advice

The HSE has provided a fresh update on how parents should approach the situation if their child starts showing symptoms of Covid-19.

It comes as masks will be enforced in school for those in third class or above and in public situations for older children.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin has said Covid cases are “going through the roof” in young children and said the target is to get to the Christmas break.

A Government statement has also confirmed that “the wearing of face masks will be recommended for children aged nine and over on public transport, retail and other indoor public settings as currently required for those aged 13 and over, with exemptions as appropriate.”

But parents who are concerned about their child have been helped out by the latest HSE advice.

If your child has any symptoms of Covid-19 (coronavirus):

• keep them at home
• get a Covid-19 PCR test

You may need to isolate them from other people. It will depend on their symptoms.

Symptoms of Covid-19

The most common symptoms of Covid-19 are:

• fever (high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or more)
• dry cough
• fatigue (tiredness)

Less common symptoms include:

• loss or changed sense of taste or smell
• blocked nose
• conjunctivitis (red or pink eye)
• sore throat
• headache
• muscle or joint pain (aches and pains)
• skin rash
• nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
• chills or dizziness

Even if your child's symptoms are very mild, keep them at home for 48 hours. Phone your GP for advice if your child has symptoms of Covid-19 and are very unwell.

Symptoms of COVID-19 can be similar to symptoms of cold, flu or hay fever. If you are in doubt about any symptoms your child has, phone your GP.

A classroom full of children after restrictions are lifted in Germany (DPA/PA Images)

If your child has symptoms of COVID-19:

Isolate your child from other people - keep them in a room on their own and choose one carer for your child who is fully vaccinated if possible.

Phone a GP or get a COVID-19 PCR test for your child.

Everyone your child lives with should restrict their movements (stay at home) and get tested if they are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Treat your child at home for their symptoms. Your child should only leave your home to have a COVID-19 test. Do not bring your child to your GP surgery unless the GP asks you to.