Common questions about COVID-19 that parents are asking pediatricians

Akron Children’s pediatricians are here to help you navigate these challenging times. They can offer the latest clinical guidance and answers to common questions about COVID-19 and the vaccine to help you make the best decisions for your family. After all, parenting is hard enough without a pandemic.

Below are the most common questions our pediatricians are getting from families like you. Be sure to discuss them with your pediatrician because recommendations could vary based on your child’s unique circumstances.

Is it OK for my child to return to school?

• The benefits of in-person schooling outweigh the risks of getting COVID-19 from in-school transmission for most children.

• Prevention measures — such as masking, social distancing, limiting class sizes, and vaccinating teachers, school staff and family members — can further decrease your child’s risk of getting COVID-19 at school.

Is my child at risk for developing complications from COVID-19?

• Children are less likely to develop severe disease than adults. However, underlying health conditions may place them at higher risk for severe cases from COVID-19.

• Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) is a rare, but potentially life-threatening complication that happens 2 to 6 weeks after your child gets sick.

• Some children have reported long-term complications from COVID-19, but it is unknown how common it is.

Can kids spread COVID-19 to family members?

• Children and teens can get sick from COVID-19 (with or without symptoms) and spread it to others.

• That’s why preventive practices, such as masking, social distancing, frequent hand washing and vaccinating children, are important to further reduce the risk of spread to loved ones.

Are the COVID-19 vaccines safe and effective?

• The vaccines have been shown to be very effective for preventing severe COVID-19 infections in adults.

• Serious complications from the vaccine are rare and most have occurred within minutes after receiving it.

• Upcoming studies will verify these findings in children before the vaccines are approved for use in children by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

For more information, schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians by calling 330-543-2778. Telehealth appointments are now available. 

Learn more about Akron Children’s COVID-19 response and resources available for families.