On March 11th, 2020, the World Health Organization characterized the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic. Additionally, on March 13th, 2020, the United States government declared the outbreak a national emergency. On May 11th, 2023 the U.S. Centers for Disease Control is reporting an end to the Federal Public Heath Emergency due to COVID-19. We at Children First are monitoring the situation closely and are dedicated to providing you with the best information possible. The following are responses to commonly asked questions regarding the COVID-19 outbreak.

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Q) What are the symptoms of a COVID-19 infection? 
A) The symptoms are variable from patient to patient. However, the generally reported symptoms are fever (greater than 100.4 °F or 38°C), cough, and shortness of breath. Severe infections can result in extreme respiratory distress. 

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Q) Can children contract COVID-19?
A) Yes. Although children are not at higher risk, they can still be infected with COVID-19. 

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Q) What should I do if I believe my child or anyone in my home has been exposed or has symptoms of COVID-19? 
A) Please call our office. We will advise you on the next actions you should take. Please do not walk into our office without prior notification. 

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Q) Should I be worried if my child has been in contact with someone with COVID-19 or someone who has traveled from a high-risk area?

A)  If your child has been in contact with anyone who is suffering from respiratory issues and a high fever please give us a call. We encourage you to contact us whether your child is showing symptoms or not.   

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Q) Can my child be tested for COVID-19 at Children First? 
A) Yes. Our office is able to test for COVID-19. Please call us if you are concerned about a possible infection or need to schedule a test. Also, please do not walk into our office without prior notice if you are concerned about a possible COVID-19 infection. 

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Q) Is Children First offering telemedicine options at this time?

A) Yes. Children First have telemedicine options available during the COVID-19 outbreak. Please call ahead to discuss if your child's case is for a telemedicine appointment. Click here for a telemedicine registration form. 

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Q) What should I do if my child or anyone living with my child has tested positive for COVID-19?

A) Please call our office. We will advise you on the next actions you should take. Please do not walk into our office without prior notification. 

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Q) Is there a U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved vaccine for COVID-19? 
A) Yes. At this time there are three vaccines for COVID-19 that have been approved by the FDA. Vaccines developed by  Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson are currently being distributed. If you have any questions about the vaccination policy in Virginia please click here for information from the Virginia Department of Health. You can also contact the Virginia Department of Health via telephone by calling 877-ASK-VDH3 (877-275-8343).

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Q) Do our offices carry the COVID-19 vaccine?

A) No.  At the moment our offices do not carry the COVID-19 vaccine. Please visit www.vaccines.gov  for locations in your area that are administering COVID-19 Vaccinations. 

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Q) Are there FDA-approved treatments for a COVID-19 infection?

A) Yes. There are treatments for COVID-19 infection. However, the only approved treatments are for those who are hospitalized due to the infection. If you would like to know more regarding treatments please click here for information from the Harvard Medical School.    

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Q) How can my family and I protect ourselves from  COVID-19? 
A) Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Please wash your hands for 20 seconds. If water and soap are not available please use hand sanitizer.  

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Practice "Social Distancing" if you or your child has tested positive for COVID-19:  Stay at home as much as possible, avoid public places, and limit your close contact with others.  If you have to be around other people please wear a mask to reduce your risk of contracting and spreading a possible infection. 

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If your child is sick keep them at home and limit their exposure to other people. 

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Practice sneezing and coughing into your elbow and arm. 

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Q) Who is most at risk for developing severe adverse outcomes from a COVID-19 infection?
A) The elderly and patients with underlying chronic conditions are likelier to develop severe outcomes. The conditions include diabetes, lung diseases, and immunosuppressed conditions.  

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Q) What should I do if I have more questions? 
A) Please call our office (703-441-8998) or click on the links listed below. 

• Healthy Children Magazine

• Virginia Department of Health

• Centers For Disease Control

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We thank you for your understanding and support. Please, call us if you have any questions regarding our policy changes.

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Last updated 05/07/2023