Study Highlights Long COVID in Children: A Growing Concern
- Children and teens with long COVID may experience varying symptoms based on their age.
- Young kids are more likely to have headaches, while teens struggle with fatigue.
- The study sheds light on the different impacts of long COVID on kids and teens.
A recent study involving over 60 U.S. health care and community settings has shed light on the prevalence of long COVID among children aged 6 to 17. Conducted between March 2022 and December 2023, the research aims to address the significant gap in understanding long COVID in pediatric populations, as most existing studies have focused on adults. Lead researcher Dr. Gross emphasized the need for more attention on children, countering the widespread misconception that they do not experience long COVID. The study reveals that long COVID is not a rare condition in children, contradicting common beliefs. One participant, Gabby, shared her harrowing experience with severe symptoms, including high fever and nausea, which led to multiple emergency room visits. Despite her struggles, Gabby faced challenges in enrolling in long COVID studies, ultimately finding support through the RECOVER study at NYU Langone, which has been instrumental in managing her symptoms. Gabby’s journey highlights the emotional toll of long COVID, as she expressed feelings of hopelessness after being dismissed by various doctors. However, the RECOVER study has provided her with a sense of community and hope, reassuring her that she is not alone in her battle. Gabby’s mother, Amy Jospa, noted the adjustments made to Gabby's school schedule to accommodate her ongoing health issues, emphasizing the importance of finding a balance between mental and physical well-being. As research continues, experts stress the urgency of addressing long COVID in children, advocating for increased awareness and resources to support affected families.