COVID-19 symptoms have evolved in sixth wave: expert
COVID-19 has evolved in the sixth wave, presenting new symptoms among those infected, making it even more challenging to pinpoint the virus.
Dr. Charmaine van Schaik, former Chief of Pediatrics at Southlake Regional Hospital in Newmarket, said children have presented with a wide range of symptoms lately.
In the early stage of the pandemic, most would lose taste or smell and come down with a high fever after becoming infected.
In recent weeks, Dr. van Schaik said symptoms that parents might see in general with a sick child could now be COVID-19.
"A lot of what we're hearing and seeing is fatigue. It's those runny noses, mild congestive symptoms and sometimes some gastrointestinal symptoms with vomiting and diarrhea."
Based on data, COVID-19 is still rapidly spreading in parts of the province. Still, many experts believe Ontario has reached the peak of the sixth wave.
MYSTERY LIVER ILLNESS IN CHILDREN
Health officials worldwide report children are developing severe cases of hepatitis with no known cause, something an Ontario pediatrician says remains a mystery.
While no cases had been discovered in Canada, Dr. van Schaik said it's possible there may have been cases, but officials are still learning as information becomes available.
"I suspect we've seen some [cases], and we're just in that process of identifying them more specifically. There's very little known of the etiology."
She notes that it remains unclear what is causing the severe cases and that experts are exploring a possible COVID-19 infection relationship, "but we really don't know at the present time."
Symptoms could include vomiting and diarrhea and then, in the days and weeks to follow, jaundice, which Dr. van Schaik said consists of the yellowing of skin and eyes.
If symptoms occur, Dr. van Schaik suggested seeking medical attention.
MENTAL HEALTH AMONG KIDS
Meanwhile, the pediatrician said mental health among children has benefitted from being back to in-person learning and face-to-face socializing.
Following weeks of online learning and isolation from their peers, the mental health of children and youths became a serious topic among officials.
Dr. van Schaik said the return to the classroom "helps bring things back to normal as much as possible."
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.