Post-COVID Symptoms in Children and Adolescents
Author Information
Author(s): Schlegtendal Anne, Maier Christoph, Stein Julien, Höpner Jakob, Petersmann Astrid, Drinka Denisa, Berner Reinhard, Lücke Thomas, Toepfner Nicole, Brinkmann Folke
Primary Institution: University Children´s Hospital, St. Josef-Hospital, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
Hypothesis
What are the symptoms associated with post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) syndrome in children and adolescents during the Omicron era?
Conclusion
Children with and without previous infections did not differ in most post-COVID symptoms, except for physical performance and cognitive problems, which were more impaired after Omicron infection.
Supporting Evidence
- 64.9% of children in the COVID-19 group reported at least one PCS symptom.
- Concentration disorders were significantly more prevalent in the COVID-19 group (12.3% vs. 1.5%).
- Physical performance was significantly impaired in the COVID-19 group.
- Quality of life ratings were similar between both groups.
Takeaway
This study looked at kids who had COVID-19 and those who didn't to see if they felt different afterward. Most kids felt the same, but those who had COVID-19 had more trouble with thinking and physical activities.
Methodology
This multicentre, cross-sectional cohort study recruited children and adolescents aged 5 to 17 years, comparing those with confirmed COVID-19 to a control group without infection.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to parents reporting symptoms on behalf of children and the possibility of families sensitive to PCS symptoms enrolling in the study.
Limitations
The study had a retrospective design, a relatively small sample size, and relied on self-reported symptoms without clinical assessment.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 272 children and adolescents, with 114 having confirmed COVID-19 and 66 as controls, with a higher proportion of adolescents in the control group.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.012
Confidence Interval
95% CI not specified
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website