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Does SARS-CoV-2 Infection Increase Risk of Neuropsychiatric and Related Conditions? Findings from
Yong Chen1, Yiwen Lu1, Jiayi Tong2
1University of Pennsylvania.
Research Square
|January 27, 2025
Summary
COVID-19 infection increases neuropsychiatric risks in children and youths. SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) is linked to conditions like anxiety, ADHD, and depression, beyond pandemic stress.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric neuropsychiatry
- Infectious disease epidemiology
- Public health
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a rise in neuropsychiatric issues among young people.
- Emerging evidence suggests SARS-CoV-2 infection itself may elevate risks beyond general pandemic-related stressors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the spectrum of neuropsychiatric conditions in SARS-CoV-2 positive children and youths.
- To compare these outcomes against a matched cohort of SARS-CoV-2 negative individuals.
- To identify specific risks associated with infection in different age groups.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of electronic health records from the RECOVER program (25 institutions).
- Inclusion of 326,074 COVID-19 positive and 887,314 COVID-19 negative participants, matched for risk factors and stratified by age.
- Assessment of neuropsychiatric outcomes 28–179 days post-infection/negative test (March 2020–December 2022).
- Confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 status via PCR, serology, or antigen testing.
Main Results:
- COVID-19 positive children (5-12) showed increased risks for anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and autism.
- COVID-19 positive youths (12-20) exhibited higher risks for anxiety, suicidality, depression, and related symptoms.
- Neuropsychiatric conditions were more frequent in the SARS-CoV-2 positive cohort compared to the negative cohort.
Conclusions:
- SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with a higher incidence of neuropsychiatric conditions in children and youths.
- Findings underscore the need for further research into the mechanisms linking infection to neuropsychiatric outcomes.
- Emphasizes the importance of developing targeted treatments and preventive strategies for affected populations.
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