Our special needs kids already have medical challenges, but the COVID-19 virus pandemic is increasing the stress on families and caregivers. It’s good to remember that special needs children and youth are not more at risk of getting the disease, but it’s how their already delicate systems respond to the infection is the cause for concern. However, according to the
American Academy of Pediatrics, there are things parents can do to keep their children with special health care needs safe and up on their appointments during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Prepare Your Home
Put signs on your front door, and around the home to remind your child and other family members to wash often, for at least 20 seconds. (The “Happy Birthday” song takes about 20 seconds to sing.)
Keep hand soap, tissues, hand sanitizer within easy reach. Create hand sanitizing stations.
Doctor Appointments
First, call your health care team if your child gets sick. They know your child's health history and will know if your child has any special risks. Your doctor's office will tell you what to do next and whether you need an in-person visit.
Keep in contact with pediatricians, specialists, and ask if appointment can be delayed. Your doctor may suggest other ways of meeting, such as phone, Skype, Facetime or other telehealth options. For in-person appointments, you and your child (over 2 years of age, is advised) will be asked to wear a mask and may be screened for fever.
Home Health Care Options
In-Home therapies may be able to continue via video calls. If therapy needs to continue in-person, consult with your home care team how to conduct the session safely.
It’s also important to keep giving your child all his or her regular daily medicines unless the care team tells you to stop. Being in their best health will make it easier for kids to get better from COVID-19 if they do get the infection. Remember to have two-to-three weeks of medicine and other supplies on hand.
Other articles by HVP News Reporters