A recent comprehensive analysis published in Pediatrics sheds light on the concerning impact of long Covid on children. The study, published Wednesday, emphasizes that long Covid can lead to a range of symptoms affecting various organ systems, including neurological, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and behavioral symptoms, persisting for months after an acute Covid infection.
Prevalence Estimates and Risk Factors
The analysis suggests that approximately 10 to 20 percent of children in the United States who contract Covid may develop long Covid. However, pediatric infectious disease expert Dr. Suchitra Rao cautions that prevalence estimates come with caveats, particularly as some studies only focused on hospitalized children with Covid. Similar to adults, children with severe Covid cases are at higher risk of experiencing lingering symptoms or new complications.
Addressing Parental Concerns
Dr. Stephen Freedman reassures parents that the risk of their children developing Covid is relatively low. Most parents do not express concern about this possibility after their children are diagnosed with acute Covid infections, which Dr. Freedman considers appropriate given current understanding.
1 in 4 children develop “long COVID” after infection
Symptoms and Challenges in Diagnosis
Long Covid symptoms in children can vary widely and may be challenging to diagnose, especially as they may manifest differently from symptoms in adults. Fatigue, brain fog, and headaches are commonly reported symptoms, which can impact children’s participation in school and other activities. Young children, in particular, may exhibit behavioral changes rather than verbalize physical discomfort.
Dr. Laura Malone emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding the long-term impact of prolonged symptoms on children’s development. Severe cases of Covid in children may lead to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, including myocarditis. While autoimmune disorders can emerge following a Covid infection, they are less prevalent in children compared to milder symptoms.
Also Read: Millions of Americans Impacted by ‘Long COVID’
Case Study: Lucas Denault
Lucas Denault’s experience illustrates the potential severity of long Covid symptoms in children. Initially experiencing mild symptoms, Lucas later struggled with debilitating symptoms, including extreme fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. His diagnosis of long Covid and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome underscores the need for awareness and medical evaluation in affected children.
The growing recognition of long Covid’s impact on children underscores the importance of continued research, awareness, and support for affected individuals and their families. As medical professionals work to better understand and address long Covid in pediatric populations, early detection and comprehensive care remain crucial for mitigating the long-term effects of the disease.
