Don’t send children to school if they develop symptoms: Pediatrician

The health authorities today urged parents not to send their children to school if they had developed any symptoms such as fever, cold, diarrhoea or vomiting, claiming that there was a significant increase in diseases among children specially Covid-19, viral fevers and dengue fever these days.

Paediatrician at the Lady Ridgeway Children's Hospital Dr. Channa de Silva said there is no treatment for viral fever and said the best way to keep the children at home and allow them to rest.

“If the children who have developed symptoms are sent to school, they will not have time to rest and their health will become worse. If they had infected Covid-19, they might spread it to other children at school. Even if the spread is limited among children, it will result in unnecessary school closures,” he said.

He said medical advice should be sought if the children had developed symptoms such as fever, cold, diarrohea, vomiting or if they refuse food or any change in their behavior could be observed.

“Viral fever among children are abundant these days. There is a significant increase in the spread of Covid-19 and dengue fever. It is important to seek medical advice and take proper treatment. Some children might have to be subject to Rapid Antigen Test or blood tests based on their health condition. Some children may have to be hospitalized and some will have to undergo treatment at home under medical advice,” he said.

Dr. de Silva said it was important for everyone to follow health practices and prevent from moving in crowded places. (Ajith Siriwardana)