With schools reopening and seasonal infections rising, paediatricians and IMA Maharashtra emphasize COVID-appropriate behavior, good hygiene, and ventilation to protect children and families. Mild COVID symptoms in kids require symptom management; caution needed to prevent spread to vulnerable groups
The teacher checks the temperature of students using a thermometer before entering school. Representation pic/istock
As schools reopen for the new academic year, recent reports of rising COVID-19 cases have sparked concern among parents and healthcare professionals. Paediatricians are advising families to follow recommended safety protocols, and maintain good hygiene, especially since seasonal infections tend to increase during the monsoon.
Dr Fazal Nabi, director of Paediatrics at Jaslok Hospital, said, “When we first began seeing COVID-19 symptoms in children, the initial cases were severe and raised significant concerns. However, at present, we’re not observing any severe paediatric cases. In fact, many paediatricians have stopped conducting extensive investigations for simple viral colds. These minor viral infections tend to be self-limiting and resolve within three days. Investigating them unnecessarily often causes undue stress to families.”
“It is quite possible that we are encountering SARS-CoV-2 cases in children presenting with mild symptoms, but we are not always identifying them through laboratory testing. That said, our clinical approach now focuses more on symptom management and less on extensive testing unless,” Dr Nabi explained.
Be alert
While children may be handling these infections well, caution is still advised, particularly because children can inadvertently transmit infections to elderly family members or those with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, or other age-related conditions.
“Basic precautions like frequent handwashing, wearing masks when symptomatic, and avoiding sharing food, tiffin boxes, or water bottles can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. We’ve also seen infections spread more rapidly in closed environments with poor ventilation, such as air-conditioned rooms. Children often share glasses and bottles at school, and these habits can easily spread viruses. Even though the current SARS-CoV-2 pediatric cases aren't severe, children can still act as carriers of infection,” Dr Nabi added.
“We emphasise symptomatic treatment, and in some cases, day-care observation. Education is also crucial, both for families and the medical fraternity. We must all stay informed and cautious to manage infections effectively,” he cautioned.
Rise in gastro cases
Currently, there has been an increase in gastroenteritis cases in the outpatient departments (OPDs) of hospitals. Past experiences with gastro outbreaks show that children are particularly vulnerable to seasonal infections that cause vomiting and diarrhoea.
In such cases, the focus should be on adequate hydration and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, as most of these infections are viral. Often, there is no lab confirmation of the specific virus causing the illness, but supportive care — including electrolyte management and symptomatic treatment — can be highly effective.
Dr Nabi said, “Gastroenteritis is an acute intestinal infection marked by fever, vomiting, and loose motions associated with abdominal cramps. It usually lasts 3 to 5 days, but this season we’re seeing more atypical cases lasting beyond a week.”
Red flag signs in gastro cases
1. Large, voluminous diarrhoea
2. Extreme lethargy
3. Listlessness
4. Disorientation
5. Decreased urine output
6. Cold extremities despite warm core temperature
IMA reacts
Dr Santosh Kadam, president of IMA Maharashtra, said, “With the reopening of schools and the arrival of the monsoon, there is a natural rise in infections, including seasonal illnesses and cross-infections. While the current situation is not alarming, we must remain cautious and proactive. Parents, teachers, and students should follow basic COVID-appropriate and infection-prevention measures to ensure everyone’s safety.”
“To reduce the spread of infections and maintain a healthier community, several preventive steps should be taken. These include wearing masks in crowded or enclosed spaces — especially for symptomatic children — practising good hand hygiene, and keeping sick children at home if they show symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or fever,” he said.
“Additionally, ensuring that classrooms and school buses are well-ventilated can significantly limit the transmission of airborne illnesses. Children should also be encouraged to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing. Staying up to date with vaccinations, including COVID-19 and flu shots, is crucial. Moreover, vulnerable individuals, such as those with weakened immunity, chronic illnesses, or those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy, must be protected by minimising their exposure and isolating when necessary. These simple yet effective actions can make a big difference in safeguarding public health,” Dr Kadam concluded.
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