How to Protect Your Kids from Coronavirus

*This is a rapidly changing situation. This video was filmed on March 26, 2020. For the most up-to-date information, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov*

In this time of uncertainty, it’s hard to know how to help your children. To answer your questions, WMAR-2 News hosted house calls for members of the public to ask healthcare experts about the current COVID-19 situation. Dr. Rachel Plotnick, a pediatrician with GBMC Health Partners Pediatric Group, discussed how to protect your children from coronavirus.

Like any virus, both adults and children need to regularly wash their hands. Be intentional about teaching your children how and when to wash their hands and make sure to remind them to do so – especially before eating and after going to the bathroom. Click here to see the CDC’s guidelines for proper handwashing.

Because kids are not able to be as careful as we need them to be when avoiding surfaces and close contact with others, Dr. Plotnick strongly advises that children stay home rather than accompanying parents to places like the grocery store. The same principle applies to playdates. “I know it’s harsh, but they really can’t have playdates,” says Dr. Plotnick.

Children are not good at social distancing and there is a very real threat that they will spread the virus to others if they are exposed. The best way to protect your children is to let them play outside in the yard and connect with their friends virtually.

*Click here for more information about the coronavirus (COVID-19)*