The XE variant’s recent emergence has begun to threaten a population that just reconstructed and resumed the life it once led two years ago. With COVID-19 cases rising yet again, it is important to be on the lookout for key symptoms of the virus in children.

“There has been an increase in the number of children with flu-like symptoms in the past two weeks. However, parents should not panic about children being detected with COVID-19 after the reopening of schools as these symptoms are mild and children are recovering with timely treatment,” Dr. Gurleen Sikka of Delhi’s CK Birla Hospital told HT.

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Symptoms of the subvariant in children

“Children who have been infected with Covid-19 manifest symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection like fever, running nose, throat pain, body ache, headache and dry cough. Some children are experiencing vomiting or loose motions,” said Dr. Sikka.

Prevention

It is crucial to encourage kids to follow a healthy routine packed with nutritious meals, regular sleep, and good hygiene. 

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“Parents and teachers should focus on providing good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle which will strengthen immunity in children along with maintaining basic hygiene care which includes sanitation and handwashing practices at home as well as inside school premises,” Dr. Sikka explained.

“Since this is a mutation of the Omicron itself, there is every possibility that the new variant will be affected by the vaccine. Children who are eligible for vaccines should get their jab as it will protect them against severe form of this infection,” the pediatrician concluded.

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The bottom line

While one should practice preventative measures, it is important to remain calm in unprecedented times.

“There is no need to panic as data from past waves have clearly shown that children, even if they contract COVID-19, have mild illness and recover spontaneously with just symptomatic treatment,” AIIMS Director Randeep Guleria told PTI.