Presbyterian | Spring 2022 | Your Story

6 You do not need to stay away from others after a close contact unless you have symptoms. You should get tested five to seven days after your exposure even if you have no symptoms. YES Are you fully vaccinated or have you recovered from COVID-19 in the last 90 days? EXPOSED TO COVID-19? HERE’S WHAT TO DO. Great! Keep following COVID-safe behaviors. YES If you begin to develop symptoms, immediately self-isolate (stay away from others). Get more info at www.phs.org/covid19 . (As of 12/16/21) STAY HOME + WATCH FOR SYMPTOMS Stay home while waiting for your test results. Watch for symptoms, including fever, cough, or shortness of breath. Get tested again five to seven days after your last exposure or immediately if symptoms develop. NO NO Have you been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19? QUARANTINE + GET TESTED Stay away from others until you are able to get tested. Get tested as soon as possible after your exposure. How to prepare your child for their first COVID-19 shot Children ages five to 11 can get the COVID-19 vaccine. For parents around the country, this is great news. But what if your child is nervous about getting their shot? Here are four tips on how to prepare your child for their COVID-19 vaccine. 1. Talk about their vaccine visit before you go. We all feel better about visiting the doctor when we know what to expect. Talk to your child about what happens when they go to get their vaccine. Answer their questions honestly. Explain that they may feel a tiny amount of discomfort after the shot, and mention some of the common side effects. 2. Use comforting, positive language. For younger children in particular, it’s important to let them know that it’s fine to feel nervous. Focus on the positives when talking about the vaccine. Tell younger kids that it’s important to get their shot because it helps keep them, their friends, and their family safe and healthy. 3. Find ways to manage anxiety on the day. Many kids are anxious on the day of their shot. Try to make a plan for how to handle vaccine-day worries. Younger children may want to bring a favorite stuffed animal. Older kids might like a video or game to keep their minds off of it. Deep, calming breaths can also help — and you can practice them before the appointment. 4. Plan a special treat. Planning a reward for after the shot can help children manage their anxiety. You know your child best. You can organize something for them to look forward to. This could involve going somewhere special or spending quality time with loved ones. After your child’s first vaccine visit, be sure to schedule their second dose with your vaccine clinic, primary care provider, or pharmacist.