Are you concerned about protecting your children from coronavirus? Do you have questions about COVID-19 symptoms in children and how to keep your family safe? At myPediaClinic in Dubai Healthcare City, we have been supporting families throughout the UAE during the pandemic with evidence-based guidance and care.

Our pediatricians, our pediatrician in Dubai and Medical Director of myPediaClinic, shares his expertise on coronavirus preparedness and response strategies for children and families. This comprehensive guide covers everything parents in Dubai need to know about COVID-19 and children, from symptom recognition to prevention and when to seek medical care.

Understanding Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Having accurate information about the coronavirus helps parents make informed decisions about protecting their families.

What Is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Key facts include:

Respiratory illness
Primarily affects the respiratory system
Highly contagious
Spreads easily from person to person
Variable severity
Ranges from mild to severe illness
Incubation period
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure
Asymptomatic spread
Some people spread the virus without symptoms

How COVID-19 Spreads

Understanding transmission helps with prevention:

Respiratory droplets
When infected people cough or sneeze
Close contact
Being near an infected person
Aerosols
Tiny particles that can linger in the air
Contaminated surfaces
Touching surfaces with virus then touching face
Prolonged contact
Risk increases with longer exposure
Indoor settings
Higher risk than outdoor environments

Symptoms of COVID-19

Symptoms range from mild to severe and include:

Fever
Elevated temperature
Dry cough
Persistent coughing
Shortness of breath
Difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Extreme tiredness
Body aches
Muscle pain
Loss of taste or smell
Common symptom
Sore throat
Throat discomfort
Headache
Head pain
Congestion
Nasal stuffiness
Gastrointestinal symptoms
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

COVID-19 in Children

Children can get COVID-19, though they often experience it differently than adults.

Common Symptoms in Children

Children with COVID-19 typically experience:

Fever
Often the first symptom
Cold and flu-like symptoms
Similar to other respiratory infections
Cough
May be dry or productive
Reduced appetite
Not wanting to eat
Fatigue
Tiredness and low energy
Runny nose
Nasal discharge
Sore throat
Throat discomfort
Headache
In older children
Gastrointestinal symptoms
More common in children than adults

How Children Differ from Adults

Key differences in how COVID-19 affects children:

Often milder
Most children have mild or asymptomatic cases
Can still spread
Children can transmit virus to others
May look like other illnesses
Symptoms resemble common cold or flu
Less severe outcomes
Hospitalization and serious illness less common
Some at higher risk
Children with underlying conditions
MIS-C
Rare inflammatory syndrome can occur

When to Be Concerned

Seek immediate medical attention if your child has:

Difficulty breathing
Labored breathing or shortness of breath
Persistent chest pain
Ongoing chest discomfort
Confusion
New confusion or inability to wake
Blue lips or face
Signs of oxygen problems
Severe abdominal pain
Especially with fever
High persistent fever
Not responding to treatment
Rash with fever
May indicate MIS-C
Severe dehydration
Unable to keep fluids down

Preventing COVID-19 in Children

Prevention remains the best strategy for protecting children from coronavirus.

Hand Hygiene

Proper hand washing is essential:

Frequent washing
Regular hand washing throughout the day
Proper technique
Soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Key times
Before eating, after bathroom, after coughing/sneezing
Hand sanitizer
When soap unavailable, use 60%+ alcohol-based sanitizer
Teaching children
Make it fun and consistent
Model behavior
Children learn from watching adults

Respiratory Etiquette

Teach children to:

Cover coughs and sneezes
Use tissue or elbow
Dispose of tissues
Properly throw away used tissues
Wash hands after
Clean hands after coughing or sneezing
Avoid touching face
Reduce touching eyes, nose, mouth

Physical Distancing

When appropriate:

Maintain distance
Keep space from those outside household
Avoid crowded places
When possible
Outdoor over indoor
Prefer outdoor activities
Limit gatherings
Follow local guidelines

Mask Usage

Follow current guidelines on masks:

Age appropriate
Not recommended for very young children
Proper fit
Covering nose and mouth
Clean masks
Regular washing of cloth masks
School requirements
Follow school policies
Exceptions
Children with certain conditions may be exempt

Stay Home When Sick

An essential prevention measure:

Keep sick children home
From school and activities
Isolation
Follow guidelines if COVID-positive
Contact school
Report illness as required
Return to school
When well and meeting criteria

Vaccination for Children

COVID-19 vaccines have been developed and approved for children.

Vaccine Availability

Age groups
Vaccines approved for various age groups
Dubai availability
Vaccines available through healthcare providers
Dosing
Age-appropriate doses
Schedule
Follow recommended timing between doses

Benefits of Vaccination

Protection from severe illness
Reduces risk of serious COVID-19
Reduces transmission
Helps protect others
School attendance
Less disruption from illness
Community protection
Contributes to overall safety
Normal activities
Safer return to regular life

Vaccine Safety

Thoroughly tested
Clinical trials in children
Monitored
Ongoing safety surveillance
Common side effects
Mild, temporary reactions
Rare serious effects
Uncommon, benefits outweigh risks
Consult your pediatrician
For personalized advice

When to Seek Medical Care

Knowing when to contact your pediatrician versus going to a hospital is important during the pandemic.

Our pediatricians advise contacting your pediatrician first rather than going directly to hospitals when:

Fever develops
Even if you suspect COVID-19
Mild symptoms
Cough, runny nose, fatigue
Testing needed
To arrange appropriate testing
Questions about care
Guidance on home management
Monitoring needs
Checking on progress

Why Pediatrician First?

Proper evaluation
Clinics can provide appropriate assessment
Reduced hospital exposure
Less risk of catching or spreading illness
Appropriate care
Most cases do not need hospital
Resource allocation
Hospitals for those who truly need them
Continuity of care
Your pediatrician knows your child

When to Go to Hospital

Seek emergency care immediately for:

  • Severe difficulty breathing
  • Blue lips or face
  • Unable to wake or stay awake
  • Severe chest pain
  • Signs of dehydration with inability to drink
  • Seizures
  • Any life-threatening symptoms

Caring for a Child with COVID-19 at Home

Most children with COVID-19 can recover safely at home with proper care.

General Care

Rest
Allow plenty of rest and sleep
Hydration
Encourage fluid intake
Fever management
Use appropriate fever reducers
Nutrition
Offer easy-to-eat foods
Monitor symptoms
Watch for worsening
Comfort
Provide comfort and reassurance

Isolation at Home

Separate room
If possible, keep sick child in own room
Separate bathroom
If possible, dedicate bathroom
Limit contact
One caregiver if possible
Masks
When in shared spaces
Hand hygiene
Frequent hand washing
Clean surfaces
Regular disinfection

Duration of Isolation

Follow current guidelines on:

  • How long to isolate
  • When to end isolation
  • Return to school criteria
  • Testing requirements if any

Talking to Children About COVID-19

Communication with children about the pandemic is important for their emotional wellbeing.

Preparation

Inform yourself first
Have accurate, current information
Choose the right time
When child is calm and receptive
Age-appropriate
Tailor explanation to their level
Calm demeanor
Your anxiety affects children

Key Messages

Simple explanations
What COVID-19 is
How to stay safe
Hand washing, distancing
Reassurance
Adults are working to keep them safe
Answer questions
Honestly and simply
Control
Focus on what they can do

Emotional Support

Acknowledge feelings
It is okay to feel worried or sad
Listen
Let them express concerns
Maintain routines
Structure provides security
Limit media
Reduce exposure to scary news
Stay connected
Even if physically distant from others
Model coping
Show healthy ways to manage stress

Managing Pandemic Life

The pandemic has affected all aspects of family life. Here are strategies for managing ongoing challenges.

School and Learning

Support remote learning
Create conducive environment
Stay connected
With teachers and school
Address learning gaps
Seek help if needed
Balance screens
Manage screen time
Social connections
Safe ways to connect with peers

Physical Activity

Daily movement
Make time for physical activity
Outdoor time
Safer than indoor gatherings
Indoor options
Exercise videos, active games
Family activities
Move together

Mental Health

Watch for changes
Mood, behavior, sleep
Maintain connections
Social support is important
Seek help
If concerns arise
Self-care for parents
Your wellbeing matters too

Understanding Long COVID in Children

Some children experience prolonged symptoms after COVID-19 infection, known as Long COVID or post-COVID conditions.

What Is Long COVID?

Persistent symptoms
Symptoms lasting weeks or months after initial infection
Can occur
Even after mild initial illness
Less common in children
But can happen
Varied presentation
Different symptoms in different children

Symptoms of Long COVID in Children

Fatigue
Persistent tiredness not relieved by rest
Difficulty concentrating
Sometimes called “brain fog”
Headaches
Ongoing or recurring head pain
Sleep problems
Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleepiness
Shortness of breath
With or without exertion
Muscle or joint pain
Persistent aches
Mood changes
Anxiety, depression, irritability
Exercise intolerance
Difficulty with previously tolerated activity

Managing Long COVID

Medical evaluation
Comprehensive assessment to rule out other causes
Gradual return to activity
Slow, paced increase in activities
Rest
Allow adequate rest and recovery
School accommodations
If needed for cognitive symptoms
Mental health support
For emotional symptoms
Regular monitoring
Track symptoms and progress

MIS-C: What Parents Need to Know

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) is a rare but serious condition associated with COVID-19.

What Is MIS-C?

Inflammatory condition
Body’s severe inflammatory response
Occurs weeks after
Usually 2-6 weeks after COVID-19 infection
May follow mild or asymptomatic
COVID-19 cases
Rare
Affects a small number of children
Treatable
Most children recover with proper care

Signs of MIS-C

Seek immediate medical attention if your child has:

Prolonged fever
Fever lasting several days
Abdominal pain
Stomach pain, often severe
Vomiting or diarrhea
Gastrointestinal symptoms
Rash
Especially with fever
Red eyes
Bloodshot eyes
Swollen hands or feet
Puffy extremities
Red, cracked lips
Or red tongue
Extreme fatigue
Unusual tiredness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Signs of low blood pressure

Treatment for MIS-C

Hospital care
Usually requires hospitalization
Anti-inflammatory treatment
Medications to reduce inflammation
Supportive care
Treatment of specific symptoms
Heart monitoring
Cardiac involvement is common
Good outcomes
Most children recover fully with treatment

Supporting Your Child’s Immune System

While no strategy guarantees prevention of illness, supporting overall health helps children fight infections.

Healthy Lifestyle Factors

Adequate sleep
Age-appropriate amount of quality sleep
Balanced nutrition
Variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, whole grains
Physical activity
Regular exercise appropriate for age
Hydration
Adequate fluid intake
Stress management
Managing anxiety and stress
Fresh air
Outdoor time when possible

Key Nutrients for Immune Health

Vitamin C
Found in citrus fruits, berries, peppers
Vitamin D
From sunlight and fortified foods
Zinc
In meat, legumes, seeds, nuts
Protein
Essential for immune function
Probiotics
Support gut health and immunity

What Does Not Help

Unproven supplements
No evidence they prevent COVID-19
Excessive vitamin doses
Can be harmful
Alternative remedies
Not substitutes for proven prevention
Only vaccination and prevention
Proven to reduce COVID-19 risk

Staying Current with Information

COVID-19 guidance continues to evolve as we learn more about the virus and develop new tools.

Reliable Information Sources

Your pediatrician
myPediaClinic for personalized guidance
Dubai Health Authority
Local public health guidance
UAE Ministry of Health
National recommendations
World Health Organization
Global guidance
Centers for Disease Control
Evidence-based recommendations

Beware of Misinformation

Social media
Not always accurate
Unverified sources
May spread false information
When uncertain
Ask your pediatrician
Check sources
Verify information before acting on it

Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 and Children

How do I know if my child has COVID-19 or a regular cold?

COVID-19 symptoms can look very similar to the common cold or flu in children, making it difficult to tell them apart without testing. Common symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, and fatigue occur with both COVID-19 and other respiratory infections. If you are concerned about COVID-19, contact myPediaClinic to discuss testing. Our pediatricians can help you determine the appropriate next steps based on your child’s symptoms and exposure history.

When can my child return to school after having COVID-19?

Return-to-school guidelines may change based on current public health recommendations. Generally, children should be fever-free without fever-reducing medication, have improving symptoms, and meet any isolation duration requirements. Contact myPediaClinic for current guidance and clearance before your child returns to school. We can provide documentation if needed by your child’s school.

My child was exposed to someone with COVID-19. What should I do?

If your child has been exposed to someone with COVID-19, contact myPediaClinic for guidance based on current protocols. Depending on vaccination status and other factors, recommendations may include monitoring for symptoms, testing, or quarantine. Our pediatricians can advise on the appropriate steps for your specific situation and help arrange testing if needed.

Can my child get COVID-19 more than once?

Yes, reinfection with COVID-19 is possible, especially as new variants emerge. Previous infection provides some immunity but does not guarantee protection against future infection. Vaccination is recommended even for children who have had COVID-19, as it provides additional protection. Continue following prevention measures regardless of previous infection. If your child develops symptoms again after recovering from COVID-19, contact myPediaClinic in Dubai for evaluation.

Should I keep my child home from school if there is a COVID-19 case in their class?

Follow current guidelines from Dubai Health Authority and your child’s school regarding exposure protocols. Requirements may vary based on vaccination status, symptoms, and current public health recommendations. Contact myPediaClinic if you are unsure what to do or if your child develops symptoms. We can provide guidance based on current protocols and your child’s specific situation.

Is it safe for my child to participate in sports and activities during the pandemic?

Many sports and activities can be done safely with appropriate precautions. Outdoor activities are generally safer than indoor ones. Follow guidelines from sports organizations and local health authorities. Ensure good hygiene practices, stay home when sick, and follow any testing or vaccination requirements. Our pediatricians at myPediaClinic can provide guidance on safe participation based on your child’s health status and current recommendations.

What should I do if my child is anxious about getting vaccinated?

Vaccine anxiety is common in children. Prepare them by explaining what to expect in simple, honest terms. Use age-appropriate language and avoid scary descriptions. Stay calm yourself, as children pick up on parental anxiety. Bring comfort items. Use distraction techniques during the vaccination. Praise their bravery afterward. If anxiety is severe, contact myPediaClinic in Dubai to discuss strategies or schedule a pre-vaccination visit to address concerns.

How long should I monitor my child for MIS-C after COVID-19?

MIS-C typically occurs two to six weeks after COVID-19 infection. Monitor your child for signs of MIS-C during this period, including prolonged fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, rash, red eyes, or extreme fatigue. MIS-C is rare, so most children will not develop it. However, knowing the signs allows for prompt treatment if it does occur. Contact myPediaClinic immediately or seek emergency care if you notice symptoms of MIS-C.

Can COVID-19 affect my child’s heart?

COVID-19 can affect the heart in some children, particularly those who develop MIS-C. Symptoms of heart involvement may include chest pain, shortness of breath, racing heart, or fatigue. Most children recover fully with appropriate treatment. If your child has had COVID-19 and experiences cardiac symptoms or unusual fatigue especially with exercise, contact myPediaClinic for evaluation. Children with known heart conditions should discuss COVID-19 precautions with their pediatric cardiologist.

What precautions should high-risk children take?

Children with underlying conditions such as chronic lung disease, heart conditions, weakened immune systems, obesity, or diabetes may be at higher risk for severe COVID-19. These children should follow prevention measures carefully, stay up to date with vaccinations, and consult their pediatrician about additional precautions. At myPediaClinic in Dubai, our pediatricians can provide personalized guidance for high-risk children based on their specific conditions.

My child had a mild case of COVID-19. Should I still be concerned?

Most children with mild COVID-19 recover fully without complications. However, monitor for any lingering symptoms that could indicate Long COVID, and watch for signs of MIS-C in the weeks following infection. Ensure your child returns to normal activities gradually. If you notice persistent symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or shortness of breath, contact myPediaClinic for evaluation. Follow up with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your child’s recovery.

How can I protect my infant who is too young for vaccination?

Protect infants by ensuring that everyone around them is vaccinated and up to date with boosters. Practice good hand hygiene, especially before handling the baby. Limit exposure to people outside your household when possible. Ask visitors to wash hands and avoid visiting if sick. Keep infant away from crowded places. Breastfeeding may provide some protective antibodies. Contact myPediaClinic if your infant develops any concerning symptoms.

Pediatric COVID-19 Care at myPediaClinic

At myPediaClinic in Dubai Healthcare City, our pediatricians and our team provide comprehensive care for children during the pandemic. We offer both in-person and telehealth consultations to meet your family’s needs safely.

Our services include:

  • COVID-19 evaluation and testing guidance
  • Telehealth consultations for illness assessment
  • In-person care when needed
  • Vaccination counseling
  • Management of COVID-19 symptoms
  • Return-to-school clearance
  • Ongoing well-child care
  • Mental health support referrals
  • Family education and guidance

Contact myPediaClinic:

Keep your family safe, healthy, and informed during these challenging times. Contact a Pediatric Clinic in Dubai Healthcare City for expert guidance on COVID-19 and children.