Back to Sports Safety with COVID-19

by Christine E. Conerly, MSN ARNP FNP-BC, NP-C

We are now about nine months into this pandemic. Most kids have been able to return to sports to some degree or another at this point, and we are seeing spread amongst kids who are on the same team. We are also now learning that the coronavirus can attack the heart, like many other viruses, and kids can develop myocarditis which is inflammation or swelling of the heart. In light of these new developments with COVID-19, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recommended guidelines for kids to safely return to sports and activities.

AAP COVID-19 RETURN TO SPORTS GUIDELINES

• Rest for a minimum of 14 days, regardless of symptoms. • Mildly symptomatic kids (fever, cough, runny nose for less than 3 days) should rest for at least 14 days AFTER illness • EKG should be performed on those children with moderate symptoms

(longer than 3 days). • Wait for 14 days after symptoms to be cleared by pediatrician or cardiologist. • For those with severe symptoms (such as multi-system inflammatory syndrome

MIS-C), restriction from activity is recommended for 3-6 months

While these guidelines may sound serious and extreme, it is important to note that we shouldn’t be afraid to let kids exercise. Exercise and physical activity is so important at this time. It can help with anxiety and depression and combat the isolation we all may be experiencing. While rushing back to sports is important to most kids, it is overall a collaborative decision with the family and the pediatrician as there are new factors to consider. Some general health guidelines are listed below.

HOW TO KEEP CHILDREN HEALTHY

• Teach and reinforce everyday preventive actions such as hand washing. • Wear a mask whenever possible. • Remind kids to wash their hands before eating food, after using the toilet, and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing. • Use hand sanitizer when hand washing isn’t possible. • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Teach your child to cough or sneeze into a tissue — then toss it. If it isn't possible to reach a tissue in time, remind your child to cough or sneeze into the crook of his or her arm. • Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. • If your child is sick, keep them home from school and out of sports or activities. • Stay up to date with well child examinations and immunizations. • Get your annual flu shot.

When in doubt about any health concerns, please contact your pediatrician. We are here to help make sure your kids have an enjoyable, but safe, return to sports experience.