Here are tips on how to protect children with hereditary metabolic diseases, during the prevention and control period of the novel coronavirus pneumonia. 

Self-protection

1.   Wash hands frequently and properly.

2.   Wear protective masks properly: wearing masks is not necessary at home when there are no contacts with confirmed cases of the coronavirus. Children over 1 year old need to wear masks when going out.

3.   Pay attention to personal hygiene: take baths, manicure nails and change clothes frequently and keep clothes tidy. 

Viral infection symptoms observation

Since family members are likely to be infected, observation of viral infection-related symptoms is still required at home. Infants and young children cannot describe their illness accurately in time, so parents need to pay more attention to changes, especially in their temperatures.

While observing your family, it is also necessary to pay attention to changes in children's mental state and appetite. If symptoms such as coughs, diarrhea, fevers and running noses are seen, parents should make relevant records and seek medical advice and help nearby or online. 

Diet and daily care

Children with genetic metabolic diseases should continue to maintain special diets, if available. Parents of those not requiring such food still need to provide sufficient nutrients. They need to feed their kids foods containing high-quality proteins, as well as fresh fruit and vegetables -- and supplement vitamins, cod liver oil and minerals in appropriate amounts, according to actual conditions.

Drink plenty of water and do not eat meat from wild animals. All meat should be cooked thoroughly before eating.

Be careful to avoid close contact, such as kissing children during home isolation.

Ensure adequate sleep and exercise regularly at home to improve disease resistance.