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What Is Long COVID?
Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), refers to a range of symptoms that persist beyond the initial COVID-19 illness. In children, these symptoms can affect various systems in the body, including respiratory, neurological, and gastrointestinal functions.
Key Symptoms in Children
A comprehensive study by the National Institutes of Health’s RECOVER Initiative analyzed over 5,300 children and adolescents to identify common long COVID symptoms. The findings revealed distinct symptom patterns based on age groups:
Children aged 6–11 years
Common symptoms include fatigue, headaches, sleep disturbances, and respiratory issues.
Adolescents aged 12–17 years
Symptoms often encompass cognitive difficulties (commonly referred to as “brain fog”), mood changes, and gastrointestinal problems.
Diagnostic Advances
Diagnosing long COVID in children can be challenging due to the variability of symptoms. However, recent advancements have led to the development of diagnostic tools:
Symptom Indices
Researchers have created indices that group prolonged symptoms, aiding in the identification of long COVID cases.
Advanced Imaging
Innovative MRI techniques have detected lung abnormalities in children with long COVID, even when standard tests show normal results.
AI-Powered Blood Tests
A novel blood test utilizing artificial intelligence has demonstrated 93% accuracy in detecting long COVID in children.
Prevalence and Risk Factors
While the exact prevalence of long COVID in children varies across studies, estimates suggest that a significant number of pediatric COVID-19 cases may lead to prolonged symptoms. Factors that may increase the risk include:
Age
Older children and adolescents appear more susceptible.
Gender
Some studies indicate a higher prevalence in females.
Preexisting Conditions
Children with underlying health issues may be at greater risk.
It’s important to note that long COVID can occur even after mild or asymptomatic initial infections.
Supporting Affected Children
If you suspect your child is experiencing long COVID, consider the following steps:
- Consult Healthcare Providers: Seek medical advice to rule out other conditions and discuss potential management strategies.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of symptoms, noting their frequency and severity.
- Provide Support: Ensure your child receives emotional and psychological support, as prolonged illness can affect mental well-being.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest research and guidelines on long COVID in children.
Conclusion
Long COVID presents a complex challenge, especially in the pediatric population. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate care, parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in supporting affected children.
Curious to learn more?
Stay tuned to DailySciTech.com for the latest updates on pediatric health and emerging medical research.
Reference: “Characterizing Long COVID Symptoms During Early Childhood” by Rachel S. Gross, Tanayott Thaweethai, Amy L. Salisbury, et al., 27 May 2025, JAMA Pediatrics.
DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2025.1066
