Can Kids Catch Covid Twice?

The primary question was whether or not people could become reinfected with the virus after overcoming it once. We quickly discovered that it wasn’t just possible, it was common. Children have not been spared the threat of reinfection, and new studies suggest they may be even more vulnerable.

Are Children More Likely to Catch Covid Twice?

Early reports of children with Covid appeared to suggest that the virus was less detrimental to young children than to the elderly. For many infectious diseases, both groups tend to be at higher risk, so this was a bit of a surprise.

Different variations have affected children in their own ways, but we have been lucky to avoid more frightening outcomes. With that said, new data shows that children do not form as many antibodies as their adult counterparts when they’re infected with Covid-19. This fact may make it easier for children to become reinfected.

The Risk of Infection

Covid-19 is a mercurial virus. Some people are fine, while others endure fatal consequences. These scenarios can often be explained by pre-existing conditions and general health, but that is not always the case. Given the information we have, the best plan of action remains prevention for all.

Following pandemic guidelines can be challenging with small children. They have their hands in everything, and their hands inevitably end up in their mouth as well as yours. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the disease-spreading capabilities of your school-aged child.

Prevention Strategies

Covid-19 is an infectious virus that survives well on certain surfaces, so cleanliness is our most crucial tool. These are some ways you can help to decrease the risk that your child will contract Covid-19 when they’re out of the home.

Top Strategies

• Use Masks: They aren’t comfortable, and no one likes them. However, they are one barrier that reduces the ability of larger droplets to reach your child’s face and mouth. As an added bonus, they prevent your child from touching their face directly all of the time.
• Teach Handwashing: We’re all tired of singing “Happy Birthday” whenever we wash our hands, but it’s important to regularly show your child proper handwashing. Find a favorite song of theirs that is approximately two minutes, and try to make it fun.
• Use Antimicrobial Sprays or Wipes: In normal times, a little access to germs can be good for your kids. When those germs are more likely to hospitalize them it’s better to avoid them entirely. Give them a mini pack of wipes or a mini pack of sanitizer to carry in their backpack for those moments where they can’t really wash up.
• Testing: Covid testing for schools may not directly benefit your child every day, but it will reduce the risk that they come into contact with a person who currently has the virus. Regular testing ensures that infected people are sent home, preventing them from infecting other children, like yours. It isn’t the most pleasant thing in the world, but it is one of the most effective ways to keep your family safe.
• Isolating: If you or any member of your family is infected with Covid-19, then isolate them as much as possible. With any luck their symptoms will be mild, but don’t hesitate to call into your local hospital’s Covid hotline if you think they’re getting worse. Isolating is hard, but if we all do it, then countless lives could be saved.

Learn More

To learn more about Covid-19 prevention and where to get your local Beverly Hills coronavirus test, contact Path MD or your local county’s website.