COVID-19 in two infants in China

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Virology

Background:

• The rapid global spread of SARS-CoV-2 has led to millions of infections and deaths worldwide since December 2019.
• Infants represent a vulnerable population with potential risks of severe illness from SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Observation:

• Two infant cases of COVID-19 in Yichang, Hubei, China, aged 5 months and older, are detailed.
• Clinical manifestations, epidemiological history, laboratory findings, and treatment were recorded.
• Severe chest computed tomographic imaging findings were observed in these infants.

Findings:

• Both infants recovered and were discharged.
• Complications included varying degrees of liver and myocardial injury in both cases.
• One infant also presented with a concurrent Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.

Implications:

• Healthcare providers, especially pediatricians, must recognize and seriously consider the potential for severe illness in infants infected with SARS-CoV-2.
• Early recognition and management of complications like organ injury are crucial for infant outcomes.