Long COVID in Children: A Growing Concern

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Long COVID in children is a genuine issue that warrants attention. While the full extent of this condition remains unclear, it is evident that some kids are experiencing symptoms long after their initial COVID-19 infection.

Throughout the pandemic, one of the few reassurances for parents has been that COVID-19 tends to be mild in children and is rarely fatal. Research indicates that the mortality rate for children with COVID is below 0.03%, and hospitalizations are less than 2%, often including cases where children tested positive for COVID while being treated for other ailments. By February, following the omicron surge, the CDC estimated that approximately three-quarters of children had contracted the virus. Most recover without serious issues, frequently without exhibiting any symptoms. However, a subset of children continues to suffer from debilitating symptoms weeks after infection. Although the proportion of affected children is small, the vast number of infections means that the overall count of those experiencing long-term effects is significant.

Long COVID lacks a clear diagnostic framework, with over 200 reported symptoms, many of which are subjective and difficult to quantify, including fatigue, sleep disturbances, and difficulties with concentration. A review published in The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal analyzed 14 studies related to long COVID in young people and found considerable variation in reported symptoms and their duration. Notably, six of the studies indicated that adolescents were more prone to report long COVID symptoms, while three suggested a higher prevalence among females. Interestingly, of the five studies that included control groups (children who had not been infected), three found that persistent symptoms were more common in those who had contracted COVID, indicating that two studies showed children who hadn’t had COVID were equally likely to report issues like headaches, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Researchers suspect that the stress associated with the pandemic may contribute to some of these symptoms, complicating the understanding of which are due to long COVID.

A separate analysis that reviewed data from 21 studies across Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America suggested that one in four children with symptomatic COVID may develop long COVID. In adults, around 30% are estimated to experience long-term symptoms following infection. Although the data for children is less defined, both kids and their parents recognize when something feels off. “I strongly believe this is an often undiagnosed issue,” said Dr. Emily Carter, a specialist at a pediatric long COVID clinic in Houston.

Diagnosing long COVID can be challenging, as symptoms may emerge weeks after an asymptomatic COVID infection. Even when children seek medical attention, tests often return normal despite the presence of symptoms. Dr. Carter noted that some children face issues severe enough to affect their school performance, with grades slipping. Symptoms can vary widely, with some kids experiencing cognitive issues, while others report heart palpitations or gastrointestinal distress. A common symptom among children is post-exertional malaise, where even minimal activity can leave them feeling utterly exhausted. Dr. Luis Rodriguez explained, “It’s like they have one bucket of energy they must use carefully for school, play, or even just watching TV. Once that bucket is empty, they’re completely drained.”

Children with long COVID also confront additional hurdles, such as having their symptoms dismissed by some healthcare providers. “They’re often told it’s all in their head or that they’re just depressed,” remarked pediatric integrative medicine specialist David Thompson. “However, we’re seeing so many cases now, and not all of these children are trying to avoid school.”

While the medical community continues to unravel the complexities of long COVID in children and discover effective treatments, there are steps parents can take. First, advocate for your child if you suspect they are experiencing long COVID symptoms, and seek a healthcare provider who will listen to your concerns seriously. Second, ensure your children are vaccinated; it remains the most effective safeguard against the potential impact of long COVID.

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In summary, long COVID in children is a complex and increasingly recognized issue. While many children recover from COVID-19 without significant consequences, a segment continues to face prolonged symptoms that can severely impact their daily lives. Parents are encouraged to advocate for their children’s health and ensure they receive appropriate care and vaccination.

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