Many Children Experience Persistent Symptoms After COVID-19 Infection

Recent research conducted by the University of Otago in New Zealand reveals that over 20% of children and young people aged 3 to 20 are experiencing ongoing health issues following COVID-19 infection. Published in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health, this comprehensive study surveyed more than 4,200 participants between November 2022 and April 2023, a period following widespread COVID-19 transmission in New Zealand.

The findings indicated that more than 70% of the participants had confirmed COVID-19 infections. Nearly one in four children reported increased frequency of common illnesses such as coughs, colds, and stomach bugs since their infection. Furthermore, approximately 21.7% experienced persistent headaches, while fatigue affected 20.6% of children. Other ongoing symptoms included stomachaches (14.6%) and new-onset anxiety (13.1%).

Prior to the pandemic, 82.6% of the children rated their health as very good or excellent. Post-infection, this percentage declined significantly, especially after the Omicron waves, with only 66.9% maintaining high health ratings. Children who had contracted COVID-19 were more likely to perceive their health as fair or poor compared to those who remained uninfected. Those with pre-existing health conditions such as asthma or ADHD were more susceptible to long-term symptoms, although many otherwise healthy children also reported issues such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating.

Lead researcher Associate Professor Julie Bennett emphasizes that preventing COVID-19 infections is crucial in avoiding long-term health impacts in children. She recommends measures like improving ventilation in homes, schools, and workplaces to reduce virus spread. The study underscores that long COVID can significantly hinder children’s daily activities, school attendance, and overall well-being.

Larisa Hockey from Long COVID Kids New Zealand highlights the importance of safeguarding children from infection, as ongoing symptoms can profoundly affect their quality of life and that of their families. Both children with and without pre-existing conditions have reported new health challenges that interfere with their daily lives.

This study serves as a vital reminder of the long-term health consequences of COVID-19 in the pediatric population and stresses the importance of continued prevention efforts to protect children's health in New Zealand and beyond.