COVID-19 Resources

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2. It can be very contagious and spreads quickly. COVID-19 most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, the flu or pneumonia. Most children who get COVID-19 can recover at home, but some may have more serious illness and complications that may require hospitalization.

There are several preventative measures you can take to make sure your child stays healthy, but the most important is to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Find the latest COVID-19 resources from experts at Children's Health℠.

COVID-19 Vaccine Information

Who should get a COVID-19 vaccine?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children 6 months and older get vaccinated against COVID-19. See specific recommendations based on your child’s age and guidelines for vaccination if your child is moderately or severely immunocompromised.

When to get a COVID-19 vaccine

All children ages 6 months and older should get a COVID-19 vaccine. If your child has already been vaccinated, the timing of additional shots will depend on which vaccine they had, their age and health status. Talk to your child’s doctor about the different vaccines and how many doses your child needs.

Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?

Yes, you can get COVID-19 vaccines at the same time as vaccines for flu and other illnesses.

Where to get a COVID-19 vaccine

COVID-19 vaccines are widely available at pharmacies and doctor’s offices. Your primary care provider or pediatrician's office can be a good place to start when looking for vaccines.

You may also find COVID-19 vaccine locations at Vaccines.gov, by texting your ZIP code to 438829, or calling 1-800-232-0233. For more assistance in Texas, you can dial 2-1-1 or visit  211Texas.org.

Pharmacies that offer vaccines include:

• CVS
• Kroger
• Walgreens
• Walmart

North Texas City and County Public Health Clinics may also have vaccines available:

• Collin County
• Dallas County
• Denton County
• City of Garland
• Tarrant County

COVID-19 Testing Information

When to test for COVID-19

The CDC recommends testing for COVID-19 if you know your child has been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 or if they have symptoms of COVID-19.

If your child has symptoms of COVID-19, test as soon as possible.

Learn specific guidelines for testing based on your child’s circumstances and get tips on how to prepare your child for a COVID-19 test.

Where to get COVID-19 tests

At-home COVID-19 tests are available at most local pharmacies. Free at-home tests may also be available to order online and ship to your home. Find more information at COVIDtests.gov. Children must be at least 2 years old to take an at-home test.

Most pediatricians can also test your child for COVID-19 during a sick visit.

COVID-19 FAQs

• How can I prevent my family from getting COVID-19?

  Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is the best way to prevent it. Families can also take additional steps to prevent and reduce the spread of COVID-19 including:

  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
  • Staying home when you are not feeling well
  • Coughing into your elbow and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing
  • Frequent hand washing

• How do we know COVID-19 vaccines are safe for kids?

  COVID-19 vaccines went through rigorous testing and have been deemed safe and effective for children by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines for children from an infectious disease expert at Children’s Health.

• What should I do if my child has been exposed to COVID-19?

  If your child has been exposed to COVID-19, be sure to monitor their symptoms, get them tested and take precautions to minimize the potential spread of the virus. Follow the CDC's respiratory virus guidance to lower risk of getting or spreading common respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, flu and RSV.

• What should I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19?

  If your child tests positive for COVID-19, the CDC recommends staying home and away from other people while they have a fever and/or symptoms. They may be able to return to school and regular activities if both are true:

  • They have been fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medicine, and
  • Their symptoms have improved over 24 hours

   

  Once your child returns to regular activities, they should take extra precautions, such as wearing a mask and physical distancing, for the next 5 days.

  If your child tests positive for COVID-19 and does not have any symptoms or fever, they may still be contagious. Take added precautions for the next 5 days after testing.

  See the CDC's full guidance on how to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses when you or your child are sick.

More COVID-19 related resources