Earlier this week, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the coronavirus was going to spread to the U.S. It was not a matter of "if", but "when" it would spread to our community.
So, of course, I freaked out.
Not really for myself, but for Lilly my 14-month old daughter.
When viruses spread, the first thing that they always say is to protect the young and the elderly.
Should I run to the store and stock up on groceries, diapers, milk, and diaper cream? Should I pull Lilly from her gym class and keep her inside the house for the rest of eternity?
Here is my disclaimer: There is a lot we don't know about the coronavirus but here is what we do know about the virus when it relates to children.
Right now, the CDC says that there is no evidence that kids are more likely than adults to come down with this virus. According to the Huffington Post News, the largest study we have looked at more than 44,000 cases in China and found no deaths among children younger than 9.
In the study, it also found that the children that DID get the coronavirus had milder symptoms that present themselves as runny nose, fever, cough and some gastrointestinal issues.
Even if the symptoms are minor and rare in kids, you still want to prepare.
Parents can do a few things to prepare.
The CDC recommends that you keep up to date with their immunizations, be mindful of keeping kids with symptoms home from daycare and schools, and talk to your pediatrician if you plan to travel.
The most important thing we can all do to keep our loved ones safe? WASH YOUR HANDS.
Sing "Happy Birthday" twice as you rub in the soap and rinse with warm water. Encourage your kids and the people around you to do the same often.
Is the coronavirus something you're worried about? Let me know in the Facebook comments.