Coronavirus Advice for Babies?

[Cdm2020]

I’m struggling to find any solid advice or information on how babies are affected (if at all) and/or if we should consider them a “vulnerable group”

Some articles are clear to state those at risk are mainly the old.. but others say “...vulnerable groups like the very young and very old”

Any talk of children is mainly kids who are at school/nursery age and how they don’t seem to be badly hit.

My baby is 4 months and you already worry about them when they’re so tiny, so should I be taking extra precautions? Avoiding visitors/crowded places? should we avoid contact with (older/schoolage) stepbrothers in case they are carriers? Not sure how much I need to worry.

GP & Health Visitor advice amounted to “wash your hands before touching the baby”

The only information I could find showed that babies were not severely affected by the virus. Some didn't show any symptoms at all.

Just to reassure you, advice for this particular virus is that the young are not in a high risk group. However, be aware you need to continue good hygiene and being sensible because it’s influenzas season and the very young can be at high risk. I’d just be cautious but don’t panic.

If you're breastfeeding then any exposure you both have will see baby receiving antibodies through you. Just like any other virus or illness. Keep calm and feed.

Babies and children have not been classed as "at risk". This seems to be the 60+, those with pre existing health conditions. Babies and children are more likely to be asymptomatic but pass it on to the adults in their lives.

Good to hear, have a 7 month old and have been very worried.

It affects babies and children in a way comparable to chickenpox- the symptoms are far less severe and dangerous than in adults. I wouldn’t worry but I don’t blame you for wanting to take extra precautions anyway.

Thanks everyone that helps put my mind at rest. Yes it’s hard not to worry..
I can’t find any statistics on how many babies have been affected elsewhere, but then the lack of info is probably a good thing - if there are no figures to report on!