If your child is sick
Learn about what to do if your child has tested positive for COVID-19 on the If you have COVID-19 page.
Children may show COVID-19 symptoms differently than adults. For example, fatigue or tiredness may look like not eating well, not being as active or acting differently. Find out more on the Fever or Chills HealthLink BC page.
Think about what is usual or unusual about your child’s specific symptoms for them. For example, a child may have a mild fever, irritability and a runny nose due to teething. A young person may also have a runny nose due to seasonal allergies or other respiratory illnesses.
Visit the Symptoms page to find common symptoms for COVID-19.
If your child has COVID-19 symptoms, check if they need testing. B.C. offers two options for COVID-19 testing in children and youth. Most school-age children can use the mouth rinse and gargle COVID-19 test.
If your child develops severe symptoms, such as:
- difficulty breathing
- struggling to breathe
- speaking in single words
- difficult to wake up
- not peeing
- chest pain
Call 9-1-1, your local emergency number or go to the nearest Emergency Department or urgent care centre.
Visit the Symptoms and How it spreads pages to learn more.
“COVID toes” or chilblain-like lesions, are one of several skin lesions seen in COVID-19. These skin lesions are specific rash and are usually seen in children or young people. They are not linked to severe diseases.
The skin lesions can happen later in the illness. They often don't need any specific treatment. If they are causing pain or itching, see your healthcare provider. They may prescribe a topical steroid cream for symptom relief.