COVID-19 management guidelines issued for children- Key points here

"Remdesivir (an emergency use authorization drug) is NOT recommended in children…There is lack of sufficient safety and efficacy data with respect to Remdesivir in children below 18 years of age," the document reads.

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The 6-minute walk test should be used on children above 12 under the supervision of parents to assess cardiopulmonary exercise tolerance. "Attach pulse oximeter to his/her finger and ask the child to walk in the confines of their room for 6 minutes continuously. Positive test: any drop in saturation < 94%, or absolute drop of more than 3–5% or feeling unwell (lightheaded, short of breath) while performing the test or at end of 6 minutes; Children with positive 6-minute walk test may progress to become hypoxic and early admission to hospital is recommended (for observation and oxygen supplementation)," it said.

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The test can be repeated every 6 to 8 hours of monitoring in-home settings; avoid the test in patients with uncontrolled asthma.

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"Steroids should be used at the right time, in the right dose and for the right duration," the centre said in the document.

(Picture credits: PTI)

The guidelines also stated that children aged 5 years and under should not be required to wear masks while those aged 6-11 years may wear a mask depending on the ability of the child to use a mask safely and appropriately under direct supervision of parents/guardians. Children aged 12 years and over should wear a mask.

(Picture credits: PTI)