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COVID-19 Specialist

Smita Tandon, MD Our Services COVID-19

Smita Tandon, MD

Pediatrician located in Fountain Valley, CA

If your child has a fever, cough, or sore throat, make an appointment for COVID-19 testing. At her self-titled practice, experienced pediatrician Smita Tandon, MD, and her team offer complete care for COVID 19, including testing, immunizations, and treatment. To make an appointment in Fountain Valley, California, call the office or book online today.

COVID-19 Q&A

What is COVID-19?

COVID 19 is a contagious upper respiratory virus first discovered in China. In early 2020, it spread worldwide, resulting in a global pandemic.

Most cases of COVID-19 respond to at-home treatments, like rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking over-the-counter medication. If your child’s symptoms persist or affect their quality of life, contact Dr. Tandon immediately.

What are the symptoms of COVID 19?

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Pink eye
  • Rash
  • Runny or stuffy nose

Some children also experience gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

How is COVID-19 diagnosed?

Dr. Tandon diagnoses COVID-19 with COVID testing. She offers several types of COVID tests, including:

Rapid antigen tests

An antigen test analyzes a sample of your child’s mucus or saliva for the presence of viral markers called antigens. If your child’s sample has COVID 19, it produces a positive result. 

Polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) tests

A PCR test analyzes a sample of your child’s mucus or saliva for specific genetic markers. PCR tests identify several genetic markers, increasing their accuracy.

How can I reduce my child’s risk of COVID-19?

You can reduce your child’s risk of COVID-19 via vaccination. Currently, COVID vaccines are available for children ages five and older.

COVID 19 vaccines work by teaching your child’s immune system to identify and destroy the COVID virus. Once a vaccine enters your child’s body, it triggers the production of antibodies –– proteins that prevent infection.

Vaccines won’t necessarily prevent your child from getting sick, but they can reduce the risk of serious side effects, like hospitalization. 

If you have an infant or toddler who is too young to get vaccinated, there are still things you can do to protect them. Dr. Tandon recommends:

  • Cleaning objects and surfaces that people touch a lot
  • Avoiding people who are sick
  • Washing your hands before breastfeeding or preparing a bottle of food
  • Wearing a mask at home if you are sick

To learn more about protecting your children from COVID-19, make an appointment at the practice of Smita Tandon, MD, by calling the office or booking online today.