With the new coronavirus, COVID-19, we know parents have a lot of questions about how to keep their children and family healthy and safe. We asked Stacy Furlow, MD, an experienced pediatrician at Northwest Arkansas Pediatrics, to answer your questions.
How is COVID-19 spread?
- Close contact with an infected person
- Respiratory droplets on surfaces
COVID-19 is spreading easily between people because it is a new virus to which we have no previous immunity. For more information, visit the CDC website.
Can I get tested for COVID-19?
The CDC has developed a test that can detect COVID-19. Tests are in limited supply, and are only being done on patients with severe symptoms or significant exposure history. If you think you may have coronavirus, please call our clinic first at (479) 442-7322 to ensure we can arrange for the best care for you.
How can I keep my children and family safe?
Prevention of COVID-19 is similar to the prevention of other respiratory infections.
- Practice social distancing:
- Stand 6 ft. apart from others
- Avoid crowds
- Avoid gatherings of groups in indoor spaces
- Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap for 20 seconds
- Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze - preferably with your elbow or a tissue you discard
- Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects including phones, tablets, keyboards, and game controllers
- Stay home when you are sick
- Get a flu vaccine
Who are the people most likely to get seriously ill from COVID-19?
- Older Adults
- Those with underlying health conditions such as:
Heart Disease
Diabetes
Lung Disease
Hypertension
Learn more about people at risk for serious illness from COVID-19 from the CDC.
Do infants, children, and teenagers get sick with COVID-19?
There's a lot we don’t know about COVID-19, but children seem to have milder forms of the illness. It is likely they do get infected in significant numbers, and can spread the virus to others.
There are no reported pediatric deaths from COVID-19.
For more information on COVID-19 and children, visit the CDC website.
How can I prepare for an outbreak in our community?
- Have 2-4 weeks of supplies and groceries on hand.
- Be sure to have plenty of your necessary medications.
- Have over the counter medications on hand.
- Have a plan to activate in case you get sick.
- Think through alternative childcare arrangements should schools be canceled.
Learn more about preparing your family for a community outbreak on the CDC website.
Is it safe to travel?
The CDC is currently recommending avoiding travel by cruise ship, and non-essential air travel. Please check the CDC website for the most up to date information.