While COVID-19 can affect newborns, understanding the specific signs and knowing what actions to take can help manage the situation effectively. This article provides guidance for parents whose newborn may contract COVID-19.
Recognizing Signs in Newborns
Newborns with COVID-19 may display symptoms that differ from those seen in older children or adults, and their symptoms can be subtle. Common indicators to look for include a fever, which might be the only symptom in some very young babies, or a cough and nasal congestion. Some newborns might also experience digestive issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea, or feeding difficulties, presenting as changes in their eating habits.
Beyond respiratory and digestive signs, parents should observe for changes in their baby’s behavior, such as increased lethargy or irritability. While many newborns may have mild or no symptoms, a small percentage could become seriously ill. Symptoms can manifest anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Knowing when to contact a pediatrician or seek emergency care is important for a newborn with suspected COVID-19. Parents should call their doctor if their baby has a persistent fever, changes in feeding habits, increased fussiness, or mild respiratory symptoms like a runny nose or mild cough that are worsening or not improving. For babies under 3 months old, a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher warrants a call to the doctor.
Immediate emergency medical attention is necessary for certain red-flag symptoms. These include difficulty breathing, such as rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, grunting sounds, or chest retractions where the stomach sucks in under the ribs. Other severe signs include bluish lips or skin, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, persistent chest pain or pressure, or severe lethargy. If a baby shows signs of dehydration, like dry mouth, no tears, or significantly fewer wet diapers, emergency care should be sought.
Caring for Your Newborn at Home
Managing a newborn with COVID-19 symptoms at home involves providing supportive care under the guidance of a pediatrician. Ensuring adequate hydration and feeding is important; if breastfeeding, continue to nurse frequently, and for formula-fed babies, offer formula as usual, while monitoring for signs of dehydration such as a dry mouth or fewer than six wet diapers a day.
Fever management, if advised by a doctor, might involve using acetaminophen in appropriate doses. Dressing the baby in comfortable clothing and offering sponge baths can also help manage fever. Maintaining a comfortable environment for the baby, free from excessive heat or cold, supports their recovery. Throughout this period, parents should continuously monitor for any worsening symptoms and adhere strictly to their pediatrician’s specific instructions.
Protecting Others in the Household
Minimizing the risk of COVID-19 transmission to other family members is an important aspect of caring for a sick newborn. All caregivers should practice frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before and after touching the baby or handling pump or bottle parts. If soap and water are unavailable, a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used.
Caregivers who are sick should wear a mask when within 6 feet of the baby to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets, though masks should never be placed on a baby younger than 2 years old due to safety concerns. If feasible, isolating the sick newborn in a separate room and limiting shared spaces can help reduce transmission. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces in the home is also recommended, along with monitoring other family members for the development of symptoms.