Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Pediatric Health: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: The long-term effects of COVID-19 on pediatric health remain a critical public health concern, with emerging evidence suggesting persistent symptoms and developmental impacts. This study aims to analyze post-COVID-19 health outcomes in children, focusing on respiratory, neurological, and psychological effects.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using medical records from 15 pediatric hospitals across the USA, UK, and Europe, covering cases from March 2020 to December 2023. A total of 12,734 children (mean age: 8.9 years, 52.6% male) with confirmed COVID-19 were compared with 10,425 age-matched controls. Logistic regression and hazard ratios (HR) were used to assess risk factors, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Persistent symptoms were reported in 32.4% (95% CI: 30.7%–34.1%) of children post-infection, with fatigue (18.9%), headaches (12.3%), and dyspnea (9.7%) being the most common. Neurological complications, including cognitive impairment and concentration difficulties, were observed in 14.6% (p = 0.003). Psychological disorders, including anxiety and depression, were significantly higher in post-COVID children (19.2%) compared to controls (7.8%) (OR = 2.43, 95% CI: 2.21–2.66, p < 0.001).

Pulmonary function tests showed a 23% reduction in forced vital capacity (FVC) in children with severe COVID-19, with long-term respiratory symptoms persisting in 11.2%. Hospitalized children had a higher risk of multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C), with an incidence rate of 3.9% and a mortality rate of 2.1% (p = 0.008).

Conclusion: COVID-19 has long-term consequences in pediatric patients, affecting multiple organ systems, including neurological, respiratory, and psychological health. Early intervention and continuous follow-up are essential for children experiencing post-COVID complications. Future research should focus on treatment strategies and long-term rehabilitation programs.