By Chantalé Fletcher
VITAMIN C, ibuprofen and saline drops are some of the medicines a home Covid-19 pack for children should have.
This according to Emergency Medicine Specialist, Paediatric, in the Emergency Department of the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex Dr Joanne Paul.
Speaking at a virtual news conference of the Ministry of Health last Monday, Dr Paul noted some items to be included in the Covid-19 home pack.
She said Vitamin C, Geosol or any other type of rehydration, ibuprofen or Paracetamol and saline nose drops should be included
In addition, a humidifier or vaporizer was also needed for steam, in cases of difficulty breathing.
Dr Paul encouraged parents to use technology to connect with their family doctor, nurses and paediatricians to ensure they were prepared for whatever may happen to their children.
She also advised parents to take precautions as an increased surge in the Omicron variant was projected and encouraged them to get their adolescent children vaccinated.
“The adolescent population will be the ones going into hospital so be aware especially if they were obese, or have kidney disease, sickle cell, cerebral palsy, thyroid disease or any syndromes.”
Dr Paul stated, “We are going to see a three-to-five increase in paediatric admissions to hospitals. It is going to be mostly sore throat, fever and upper respiratory but look out for croup.”
She stated obesity and sickle cell, aside from the cardiac element and syndromes, were some of the major factors with Omicron in terms of having severe manifestations in children to be hospitalised.
Dr Paul recommended that parents talk to their children and explain the necessary health protocols so when in public, they could practice the three W’s – wash hands, watch distance and wear a mask.
She encouraged an increase in ventilation at homes and outdoor activities for both adults and children.
Meanwhile, Chief Medical Officer Dr Roshan Parasram stated that symptomatic care was done at home for Covid-19 patients with milder symptoms.
This care also included Panadol and patients should remain hydrated as best as they could.
Dr Parasram said, “You use the antipyretics, but if you have shortness of breath or any signs or symptoms that are worsening, then present yourself to a healthcare facility or contact a health care provider as soon as you can.”
