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Recently, millions of children returned to classrooms, many for the first time in over a year and a half. This transition occurs as schools strive to maintain safety amidst a persistent virus. While the return is challenging, one critical aspect has been largely overlooked: how to assist students dealing with long-haul COVID. Many school districts feel uncertain about the best ways to provide support, and navigating this new reality is complex.
Long COVID is More Widespread in Children Than Anticipated
When COVID-19 first emerged, the reassuring message to parents was that kids were not significantly affected. However, that perception has proven to be misleading. Over 5.7 million children have tested positive for COVID-19, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Research indicates that between 11 and 15 percent of these infected children may experience Long COVID, a condition characterized by persistent symptoms following infection, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches, brain fog, and loss of taste and smell. These symptoms can severely impact their daily lives.
Experts are still investigating why some children suffer prolonged symptoms while others do not, and no one-size-fits-all treatment has yet been established.
Long COVID in the School Environment
As children return to in-person learning, the repercussions of Long COVID are becoming increasingly evident. School closures and challenges with remote learning have caused many students to fall behind. Long-haulers like twelve-year-old Jake, who faces dizziness and fatigue, or ten-year-old Mia, who struggles to participate in class, risk further academic setbacks.
Dr. Emily Johnson, a pediatric health expert, warns of the significant impact this can have on children’s development. “These formative years are crucial. Once they start to lag behind, it can lead to a loss of confidence, creating a negative cycle.”
Federal Disability Guidelines and School Support
This summer, President Biden announced that Long COVID could be classified as a disability under federal guidelines. Following this, the Department of Education issued guidance to assist schools in determining when a child qualifies for accommodations. Some students may require extra time for tests or additional support from educators.
Yet, implementing these accommodations is not straightforward. The permanence of Long COVID remains unclear, with studies suggesting that about half of the affected children may see their symptoms resolve within three months, while others may experience longer-lasting issues. Sarah Allen, a researcher at the University of California, emphasizes the need for schools to continuously assess student needs, which is challenging given the existing strain on educational resources.
The Role of Vaccination
Vaccines play a crucial role in curbing the pandemic and potentially reducing the incidence of Long COVID among children. A recent study indicated that vaccination could decrease the risk of Long COVID by half for adults experiencing breakthrough infections. However, children under twelve in the U.S. are not currently eligible for the vaccine, although this may change soon. Meanwhile, schools remain ill-equipped to support students grappling with Long COVID, underscoring the importance of preventive measures such as masking and social distancing.
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Summary
In conclusion, as schools reopen, it is vital to address the needs of children experiencing Long COVID. With federal guidelines outlining potential accommodations and the urgent need for ongoing support, parents and educators must work together to ensure that all students can thrive, regardless of their health challenges.
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