Roughly 52% of the entire population is fully vaccinated. We also see the development of the most accurate covid-19 test for companies. One can safely say that we are rounding the pandemic curb. But this does not necessarily mean that we can drop our guard.
Several sources reported that over 200 million people contracted Covid-19. This number reminds us that we still have a long way to go. But with schools opening soon, how can we keep ourselves safe. More importantly, how can our little ones remain healthy?
Parents are very anxious about the delta variant. The New York Times reported that this variant affects kids more than the original strain. It confirms our fears. But we should not allow it to rule our lives. Here are a few health tips for your kids:
Vaccine
The WHO and medical experts encourage the public to get vaccinated. ABC News reported that an estimated 97% of those who are in the ICU are unvaccinated. With this said, (if you are qualified) get yourself and your loved ones vaccinated.
The government constantly assures the public that the vaccine is safe. It points out that the FDA would not approve these vaccines if they would cause illness. Scientists developed them. These vaccines went through the required clinical tests.
These vaccines do not only protect you. But this protection extends to those near you. If you have little ones that are not yet qualified for the vaccine, this bit of factoid should give you some peace of mind. The vaccine also lessens the likelihood that you will spread the virus to them.
If you have not gotten the vaccine, you should immediately get inoculated. The question is which vaccine you should get. Here are the FDA approved vaccines:
- Moderna – The government approved this vaccine for those 18 years old and older. Once you receive the first shot, you should follow through with the 2nd dose after 28 days. You are fully vaccinated two weeks after the second shot.
- Pfizer – It is the only vaccine available for kids aging 12-17. The waiting period between shots is shorter compared to Moderna. You only need to wait for 21 days. Just like Moderna, you are fully vaccinated two weeks after the second shot.
- Johnson and Johnson’s – Unlike the other two vaccines, you only need one dose for this one. Only those who are 18 years and older can have this.
The government recommended that people allergic to polyethylene glycol get the J&J vaccine. It is an ingredient of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. If you are allergic to polysorbate, choose Moderna and Pfizer. J&J uses this in its Covid-19 vaccine.
How about those who suffer from a severe allergy? Do not fret! The government guarantees that the vaccines do not have any adverse effects on those who have severe allergies.
Masks
Dr. Anthony Fauci has consistently advocated the wearing of masks. He even encourages those who are fully vaccinated to continue wearing them. He said that wearing a mask will protect the unvaccinated. It is their first line of defense.
The government stated that the fully vaccinated are not required to wear a mask when outdoors. But they recommend one if you are in a crowded space. They have pointed out that this will maximize your protection from the new variants. They also advise those who are immune-compromised to continue wearing one.
With this said, you should encourage your little ones to properly wear their masks. It is even more important for those who are too young to be vaccinated. It will also prevent them from carrying the vaccine from school to your home. Those who already received their shots can wear non-medical grade masks. It is a fun way to encourage your kids to wear one.
Washing of Hands
The government and WHO points out that the washing of hand prevents the spread of the virus. It also protects you from getting sick. It is more effective than merely applying hand sanitizer.
When you wash your hands with soap, you effectively remove the germs from your hands. It prevents the transmission of pathogens that can get inside your eyes, nose, or nose. These harmful microorganisms can also contaminate our foods and drinks.
As parents, we cannot stop worrying. There are so many unknowns about Covid-19. The mere fact that we cannot have our young ones vaccinated increases our anxieties. But these tips will lessen our concerns. You should encourage your kids to always wear their masks and to always wash their hands.
