Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus in late 2019 until now, data or study results on COVID-19 vaccination in children under 18 years old are still limited and remain under investigation. If in the future, studies and research find that the available vaccines are effective and safe for use in children, then they will be introduced for use in the pediatric group. Therefore, since we cannot vaccinate children at this time, we should first know how to build immunity for children.
How to Build Immunity for Your Child When There Is No Vaccine
Children should follow these guidelines to stay away from risk and be safe, reducing the risk of infection.
- Eat a complete diet with all 5 food groups
- Get enough rest
- Avoid places with a high risk of infection or crowded areas
- Follow infection prevention measures such as wearing masks and washing hands frequently
In addition, COVID-19 vaccination in adults or guardians also helps reduce transmission to children. If vaccination coverage is sufficient in the community and country, it will reduce the risk of infection for others, including children who have limitations in receiving vaccines, which is called ‘herd immunity’.
Are There Other Vaccines That Can Substitute for COVID-19 Vaccines in Children?
There is currently no vaccine that can directly substitute for COVID-19 vaccines. However, all children must receive routine vaccinations from birth according to their age. Additionally, there are supplementary vaccines that can prevent and reduce severe complications of respiratory infections, such as:
- Influenza vaccination
- Pneumococcal vaccination (IPD)
How to Check for Initial Symptoms of COVID-19
Symptoms of COVID-19 and other respiratory viral infections often have similar clinical features and are difficult to distinguish by symptoms alone. The important factor is a history of high-risk exposure, such as family members or close contacts infected with COVID-19 or visiting high-risk areas.
Regarding symptoms, most COVID-19 infections are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms. The initial symptoms to consider that a child may be infected with COVID-19 include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Shortness of breath
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Red eyes
Do Children Have the Same Risk of Contracting COVID-19 as Adults?
All age groups are at risk of contracting COVID-19. However, children at risk of severe symptoms are those under 1 year old. Overall, children tend to have milder symptoms than adults. Currently, the proportion of COVID-19 cases in children is about 8%. However, if the virus mutates, transmission may increase, and the infection rate in children may also rise.
Dr. Renuka Charaspongpisut
Specialist in Pediatric Neurology
Child and Adolescent Health Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
