Skip to main content
Shop Plans Learn more about our coverage options including health, Medicare, dental and vision options for you, your family or your employees. Get Started Individual & Family Medicare Employer Vision Dental International Travel Find Care FAQ Blog Members Stay on top of your health care with helpful member resources. Members Home Medicare Health Dental Vision Find Care Member Knowledge Center Member Forms Medicare Forms Library Make a Payment Federal Employees Student Blue Healthy Blue Providers Access tools, policies and the latest information to help you care for our members. Providers Home Network Participation Networks & Programs Claims, Appeals & Inquiries Prior Authorization Services & CPT codes Prescription Drug Search Policies, Guidelines & Codes Provider News Provider FAQ Contact Us Employers Learn about our coverage options for small and large employers, and access tools and resources for your group. Employers Home Shop Employer Plans Employer Portal Support Member Forms & Resources Find Care Blog Agents Access the tools you need: rate quotes, applications, forms, the latest industry news, marketing materials and more. Agents Home Agent Services Check Eligibility Find Care Member Forms & Resources Medicare Forms Library
Contact Us
Log In
I am ... Please select A member A provider An employer An agent
Log in to Agent Services
Log in to Employer Services Register for Employer Services I'm registered but need portal access
Username Forgot username? Continue to Log In Register for Blue Connect Need help? Learn how to log in.
Log in to Blue e Register for Blue e Log in to Dental Blue
Back
Everything parents of babies need to know about COVID-19 August 23, 2021 Children's Health COVID-19 Healthy Living 2 MINUTE READ

COVID-19 cases are unfortunately on the rise again. However, the spike we’re seeing this year looks a little different than what we saw last year – a larger percentage of cases are coming from children and babies. With this spike, many parents are on high alert and are seeking guidance on COVID-19 presentation, treatment and protection. Here are answers to your most pressing questions.

Can babies get COVID-19?

Yes. Children of all ages can get COVID-19 and babies are unfortunately more likely to spread the virus to others, according to a study from JAMA Pediatrics.

When is my baby most at risk to get COVID-19?

Due to their immature immune system, babies under the age of one are most at risk for catching COVID-19. Parents and caregivers should be mindful of these risks and take proper precaution.

Do COVID-19 symptoms vary for babies?

While symptoms present themselves in a similar way for babies and adults, symptoms are typically less severe for babies. Being tested for COVID-19 is the only way to know whether your child is infected, since infection can occur without symptoms.

Does my baby need to wear a mask?

According to a Kids Health article, babies and toddlers under the age of two should not wear a mask. Masks provide too much of a suffocation risk and should be avoided. Other COVID-19 precautions should be taken such as handwashing and social distancing.

How can I protect my baby from COVID-19?

Since it is not recommended that babies wear masks, the below things can be done to reduce their risk of contracting COVID-19:

  • Practice social distancing, especially around people who are sick.
  • Wash hands often. Babies are notorious for touching their face and sticking their hands in their mouth. Maintain clean hands as much as possible.
  • Limit group activities or going to areas with high transmission rates.
  • Get vaccinated to reduce the chances of bringing COVID-19 into the home.
If I’m pregnant or breastfeeding, should I still get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes. The CDC recommends anyone over the age of 12 should receive the vaccine, including those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

For women who are pregnant, the vaccine is safe to receive during your pregnancy. It is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your baby seeing as pregnant women are at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

For women who are breastfeeding, the vaccine is safe and can pass along COVID-19 antibodies to your breastfeeding child, providing them with further protection from the virus.

If you have additional questions about protecting your newborn from COVID-19, consult your pediatrician. Guidelines and recommendations are constantly changing, and they can ensure you’re practicing the latest.

Larry Wu, MD Larry Wu, MD Regional Medical Director

Larry is a regional medical director for Blue Cross NC providing consultative services for employee health solutions, prevention, chronic disease, care management, medical expense and utilization management. He's a family physician with over 20 years in clinical practice, has served as clinic director in the Indian Health Service, Kaiser Permanente and Duke Family Medicine and currently maintains a part-time clinical practice.

Browse related articles

Mental health signs and support for students

Explore key signs of youth mental health challenges and discover practical tips for parents to support teens during the school year.

Back-to-school health checklist

A simple list to protect your child's health.

Coming together for North Carolina’s youth

Blue Cross NC is committed to understanding and addressing the root causes affecting mental well-being in our young people.