Study reveals how Long Covid symptoms in children vary by age

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New research found that the symptoms associated with Long Covid in children vary depending on the age group. 

According to the study, the symptoms associated with Long Covid in children differ depending on the child's age group. (Photo: Getty Images)

New Delhi,UPDATED: May 6, 2024 14:40 IST

A new study has provided significant insights into the symptoms of Long Covid in children, highlighting how it varies based on age.

Presented at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) 2024 Meeting, the research was conducted across multiple sites and surveyed over 7,000 caregivers and children, 75% of whom reported a history of Covid-19 infection.

According to the study, the symptoms associated with Long Covid in children differ depending on the child's age group.

The research categorised symptoms across various age groups: infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children (birth to five years), school-age children (six to 11 years), adolescents (12 to 17 years), and young adults (18 to 25 years).

By comparing symptoms in participants with and without a history of Covid-19 infection, researchers were able to identify common symptoms highly linked with Long Covid. According to the study, the symptoms associated with Long Covid in children differ depending on the child's age group. (Photo: Getty Images)

School-age children, adolescents, and young adults with a prior Covid-19 infection commonly experienced symptoms such as low energy, headaches or light headedness, trouble focussing or concentrating, joint pains, and gastrointestinal issues, as per the study.

However, specific symptoms varied by age group.

For instance, school-age children were more prone to prolonged phobias or fears of specific things and school refusal, while adolescents exhibited more fears of crowds or enclosed spaces and panic attacks compared to their counterparts without a Covid-19 infection history.

Moreover, certain symptoms were more prevalent in younger age groups. Infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children with a prior Covid-19 infection were more likely to experience general symptoms like poor appetite, trouble sleeping, and fussiness, along with respiratory issues such as stuffy nose and cough.

Dr Rachel Gross, the presenting author and associate professor of paediatrics and population health at New York University Grossman School of Medicine, highlighted the importance of understanding Long Covid in children as researchers continue to explore the long-term effects of Covid-19 infection in this age group.

The study's findings provide valuable insights for clinicians to accurately diagnose and treat Long Covid in paediatric patients, tailoring interventions based on age-specific symptoms.

Published By:

Daphne Clarance

Published On:

May 6, 2024