Post-COVID-19 condition in children: epidemiological evidence stratified by acute disease severity

Coen R Lap1,2,3, Caroline L H Brackel4,5, Angelique M A M Winkel6,4

  • 1Department of Pediatrics - Van Houten research group, Spaarne Gasthuis, Hoofddorp and Haarlem, Haarlem, The Netherlands. c.r.lap@amsterdamumc.nl.

Pediatric Research
|September 27, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Children with severe COVID-19 have a higher risk of developing pediatric Post-COVID-19 condition (PPCC). This condition

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Longitudinal cohort studies
  • Public health surveillance

Background:

  • Pediatric Post-COVID-19 condition (PPCC) prevalence and risk factors require further investigation.
  • Understanding quality of life impacts in children with varying COVID-19 severities is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Determine PPCC prevalence in children based on acute COVID-19 severity.
  • Identify risk factors associated with PPCC development.
  • Assess the impact of PPCC on children's quality of life.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective longitudinal study with 1-year follow-up.
  • Comparison of non-hospitalized (mild COVID-19), hospitalized (severe COVID-19), and SARS-CoV-2 negative control groups.
  • Assessment of PPCC prevalence and quality of life indicators.

Main Results:

  • PPCC prevalence was significantly higher in severe COVID-19 cases (29.2%) compared to mild cases (14.6%) and controls (2.3%) at three months.
  • PPCC prevalence decreased over one year in the mild COVID-19 group.
  • Children with PPCC reported lower physical health-related quality of life and higher fatigue.

Conclusions:

  • Severe acute COVID-19 in children is a significant risk factor for developing PPCC.
  • Prior medical history, hospital admission, and persistent fatigue are key risk factors for PPCC.
  • PPCC prevalence diminishes over time, but impacts quality of life.
Abstract

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