ABSTRACT
ObjectivesTo explore parents perceptions of COVID-19-like symptoms in their child and attitudes towards isolating from others in the household when unwell. Study DesignQualitative, semi-structured interviews. Methods30 semi-structured telephone interviews with parents of children between 4 and 18 years. ResultsWe found four themes relating to symptom attribution ( normalising symptoms, err on the side of caution, experience of temperature, symptoms not normal for us). In general, parents were more likely to attribute symptoms to COVID-19 if a temperature was present or the symptoms were perceived as unusual for their family. Four themes relating to self-isolation ( difficult to prevent contact with children, isolation would be no different to lockdown life, ability to get food and supplies, limited space). Parents believed they would find isolation within the household difficult or impossible if they had dependent children, had limited space or could not shop for groceries. ConclusionsThe findings highlight complexities in symptom perception, attribution, and household isolation. We suggest that they can be overcome by a) providing better guidance on what symptoms require action, b) providing guidance as to how to prevent infection within the household, and c) by supporting families with grocery shopping through a potential second or third wave.
