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Effects of COVID-19 on children with autism

Mohammed Al-Beltagi1,2,3, Nermin Kamal Saeed4,5, Adel Salah Bediwy6,7,8

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Alghrabia, Egypt.

World Journal of Virology
|December 9, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Children with autism face increased COVID-19 risks due to immune issues and comorbidities. Early detection, vaccination, and support are crucial for managing infectious diseases and mitigating pandemic impacts.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic poses significant health risks, particularly for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • Children with autism often present with immune deficiencies and comorbidities, elevating their risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes.
  • Neurotrophic effects of SARS-CoV-2 raise concerns about potential neurological impacts, including risks to offspring from maternal infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the multifaceted effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children with autism.
  • To identify challenges faced by the autism community during lockdowns, including routine disruption and service access.
  • To discuss strategies for alleviating COVID-19's impact and addressing health inequalities in children with autism.

Main Methods:

  • This study is a comprehensive literature review.
  • It synthesizes existing research on COVID-19's impact on individuals with autism.
  • The review examines data on immune function, comorbidities, and pandemic-related challenges.

Main Results:

  • Children with autism experience heightened vulnerability to COVID-19 due to immune dysfunction (approx. 25%) and comorbidities.
  • Lockdowns exacerbated difficulties for children with autism, affecting routines, education, sleep, and increasing abuse risks.
  • Severe maternal COVID-19 may pose risks for autism development in offspring.

Conclusions:

  • Prioritizing early detection, testing, and vaccination for COVID-19 in children with autism is essential.
  • Targeted interventions are needed to manage infectious diseases and support the autism community during health crises.
  • Addressing inequalities and providing specialized care can mitigate the pandemic's adverse effects on children with autism.

Keywords:
ASDAutismAutism Spectrum DisorderCOVID-19ChildrenNeurotropismSARS-CoV-2TestingVaccination

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