COVID-19: Louisiana Reopens

The outbreak of COVID-19 is a stressful time for everyone. This may be especially true for mothers who are breastfeeding and concerned about their baby's health. However, mothers can successfully start and maintain breastfeeding during the pandemic, with some recommended precautions.

The link between COVID-19 and MIS-C is not well understood, and we are trying to learn if some children are more at risk. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) wants to reassure parents that very few children get severely ill from the virus that causes COVID-19. So far, most children who have been diagnosed with MIS-C have recovered after getting medical care.

As COVID-19 continues to spread, children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) may be at increased risk for more severe illness and complications. This includes children with chronic physical, developmental, behavioral or emotional conditions, disabilities, and those with medically complex conditions. School, supports, activities and routines may also be disrupted on an ongoing basis.

COVID-19, discovered in December 2019, quickly became a global pandemic. Doctors and researchers continue to learn more about it every day. Safe and effective vaccines are now available, offering hope for an end to the pandemic. Until everyone is vaccinated, however, the virus continues to spread.

Children need protection from COVID-19 both for their health and the health of family and friends. New COVID-19 variants and more in-person activities mean the virus is still being transmitted, and kids are still getting sick.

Being a parent or caregiver of a child with a developmental disability has its own daily challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic added to these, with families ​​needing to adapt to the “new normal" to slow the spread of the virus.

Part of being on a team is defending and protecting your teammates. One of the best ways that athletes can do that is to wear a face mask for most sports to reduce the risk of spreading the virus that causes COVID-19.

Many parents have questions about COVID-19 vaccines, which are now available to anyone age 12 and up. Here are answers to some of the most common questions families may have.

Many families are asking if their children should be tested for COVID-19. Your pediatrician can help determine when testing may be a good idea, and which type of test would be best. ​They can also help you follow up on your child's test results.

​​​​​​​​​​If your child is participating in youth sports during the COVID-19 pandemic, remember to take steps that can reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

Parents and guardians in Louisiana will now have access to their child or dependent’s vaccination status via the LA Wallet app.

CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccines for everyone 6 months and older and boosters for everyone 5 years and older, if eligible.