GPs report ‘surge’ in youngsters attending for Covid-19 opinion

Increase in children visiting family doctors because Covid-19 may be seen nationwide since schools reopened – IMO

Dr. Denis McCauley

General practitioners across Ireland are reporting an "increase" in the number of children present to assess possible Covid-19 infections, the General Practitioners Union said today (Tuesday).

Dr. Denis McCauleyThe Irish Medical Organization (IMO) GP committee chairman said there was an increase in child ratings across the country.

“Our GP members across the country report a very significant increase in requests from parents for ratings of their children for possible Covid-19.

"We expected such a development after the long-awaited reopening of the schools, but we are nevertheless impressed by the numerous inquiries from the members."

As the viral disease increased, he also emphasized that recommendations had changed and that it was important for health professionals to make assessments for tests. Previously, he told the Irish Medical Times, the advice for viral diseases would have been to monitor their condition for two to three days.

Now the goal was to see everyone at the onset of a viral illness. General practitioners could then filter out non-Covid-19 cases and identify other important conditions that may be present.

A general practitioner assessment was the primary public health advice and enabled the patient to seek guidance from the advice and recommendations of a healthcare professional.

Dr. McCauley said the IMO supports the reopening of schools and that public health doctors are working closely with schools across the country to treat all reported cases of Covid-19.

“It is absolutely right that the schools have reopened and the parents are seeking advice on possible Covid cases. The increase in the demand for reviews is positive as it shows that parents are closely monitoring the health of their children.

“By being proactive, they are doing their part to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in schools and the wider community, and they are doing an excellent job. However, it is important that all of us in society support this by hand washing. social distancing and reducing contacts, ”he added.

valerie.ryan@imt.ie