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Persistent neurological sequelae in children and adolescents after SARS-CoV-2: a scoping review

Salma Zouari Mallouli1,2, Daniel Munblit3,4, Ekaterina Iakovleva4

  • 1Child Neurology Department at Hedi Chaker, Sfax University Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia. mallouli.salma26@gmail.com.

Infection
|October 31, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Persistent neurological symptoms, including pain and sleep issues, are a significant concern for children and adolescents after COVID-19 infection. This review highlights the substantial burden of long COVID-19 in this age group.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant health planning and research focus.
  • Long-term consequences of acute disease, containment measures, and ongoing symptoms pose a global challenge.
  • Understanding effects on children and adolescents is crucial for tailored health directives.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the spectrum of persistent neurological sequelae in children and adolescents post-SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • To inform future health policies regarding pediatric long COVID-19.
  • To synthesize global data on neurological manifestations in young populations.

Main Methods:

  • Scoping review conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
  • Literature search across major databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Cochrane, WHO COVID).
  • Included peer-reviewed articles on pediatric long COVID-19 neurological symptoms from September 2020 to September 2024.

Main Results:

  • Pain and sensory problems were the most prevalent neurological sequelae (81.5%).
  • Sleep disturbances (15.9%) and cognitive difficulties (2.4%) were also reported.
  • Neurological symptoms were more common in the 11-16 age group, with immunocompetent children at higher risk.

Conclusions:

  • A considerable burden of persistent neurological symptoms exists in children and adolescents following COVID-19.
  • These findings necessitate consideration in healthcare decision-making for pediatric populations.
  • Further research and targeted interventions are warranted for pediatric long COVID-19.
Abstract

Keywords:
Long COVID-19Neurological sequelaePediatricSARS-CoV-2 infection

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