Prevalence and risk factors associated with long COVID in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54097/6qjdtt86Keywords:
Long COVID, children, meta-analysis.Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant number of individuals experiencing persistent symptoms post-recovery, also known as "long COVID." While children generally present milder COVID-19 symptoms than adults, concerns about the prevalence of long COVID in this demographic are rising. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence of long COVID in children and adolescents and identify associated risk factors. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed and Web of Science up to July 23rd, 2023. We assessed the pooled prevalence of long COVID in children. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were performed by stratification with follow-up duration, mean age, and sex ratio. Results: Out of 5903 identified studies, 24 met the inclusion criteria, comprising 37,410 participants. The pooled prevalence of long COVID symptoms in children post-acute COVID-19 was 23.7% (CI: 16.1% to 34.8%). Age-stratified analysis revealed prevalence rates of 9.5% (0-6 years), 24.1% (6-12 years), and 52.0% (>12 years). Children with a history of COVID-19 were nearly twice as likely to develop long COVID symptoms compared to controls. Risk factors identified included older age, hospitalization status, COVID severity, and specific acute-phase symptoms. Conclusion: This meta-analysis highlights a concerning prevalence of long COVID in children, especially in those aged above 12 years. The findings underscore the need for standardized reporting methods, global research collaboration, and targeted interventions to address the potential long-term consequences of COVID-19 in the younger population.
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Post COVID-19 condition (Long COVID) (https: //www.who.int/europe/news-room/fact- sheets/item/post-covid-19-condition).
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