Even though COVID is known to be a virus that affects weaker immune systems, the new wave has not only infected the youth but over the past one and a half years, five children in Sri Lanka have succumbed to the deadly virus. Medical experts opine that over 1000 children have so far tested positive and that numbers could increase with the ongoing wave. 

“Unfortunately or fortunately a majority if children are asymptomatic,” opined Dr. Deepal Perera, Consultant Paediatrician at Lady Ridgeway Hospital. “We do Rapid Antigen Tests for medical ward admissions but a majority of RAT results are negative. So we don’t know if we are getting the real picture with positive PCR and RAT results. Some children show upper respiratory symptoms such as runny nose and headaches. But we need to observe for complications such as COVID pneumonia and a secondary bacterial infection. Children with congenital heart diseases, chronic asthma, lung diseases, immunodeficiencies, cancers are at risk.” said Dr. Perera. 

Some children show upper respiratory symptoms such as runny nose and headaches. But we need to observe for complications such as COVID pneumonia and a secondary bacterial infection

“But in order to prevent the infection we shouldn’t take the virus home,” Dr. Perera advised. “So we need to maintain distance from children, wash hands, wear masks and adhere to safety guidelines. But if your child shows any kind of symptoms, admit them to the nearest hospital rather than sending them for quarantining. Still there are beds available for children at IDH, Homagama hospitals and even in hospitals in Kamburugamuwa, Matara,” added Dr. Perera. 

Dr. Perera further said that some countries are giving certain vaccines for children above 12 years. “In Abu Dabi they are giving the Sinopharm vaccine for children above 16 years of age. Sri Lanka should now look at administering vaccines to children to boost their immunity. A suggestion has been made and it is now at discussion stage.” he concluded.