Public health researchers say strong evidence suggests preventing infection is key to preventing Long Covid, after they found more than a fifth of children and young people were suffering ongoing symptoms following Covid-19.
Led by the University of Otago, and published in the International Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health, the study surveyed more than 4200 children and young adults aged three to 20 years between November 2022 and April 2023, after the first widespread Covid-19 community transmission in early 2022.
More than 70% of participants had a confirmed Covid-19 infection.
A quarter had suffered more frequent coughs, colds and stomach bugs since infection, while one in five reported ongoing symptoms, such as headaches (21.7%), fatigue (20.6%), stomach aches (14.6%) and new anxiety (13.1%).
Before Covid-19’s widespread arrival, 82.6% of children rated their health as “very good” or “excellent” – that number dropped to 66.9% after the Omicron variant waves.
Children who had Covid-19 were significantly more likely to rate their health as “fair” or “poor”, compared to those who did not.
Children with pre-existing conditions, like asthma or ADHD, were more likely to develop post-Covid symptoms, but many previously healthy kids also reported new difficulties, ranging from persistent coughs to concentration problems.
Associate Professor Julie Bennett, from the university’s Department of Public Health, said long-term symptoms could affect children’s ability to participate in daily activities and attend school.
“Reducing infections to key to preventing Long Covid,” she said. “Simple steps like opening windows to improve ventilation in classrooms, workplaces and at home helps reduce the spread of Covid-19 to others.”
Bennett said common symptoms reported in New Zealand children included headaches, fatigue, stomach aches, anxiety, and more frequent coughs and colds.
“If a child has Covid, ensure they are able to rest during and after infection to prevent post-viral complications, such as Long Covid.”
Co-author Larisa Hockey, of Long Covid Kids New Zealand, said the findings showed Covid-19 had had a “measurable and ongoing impact” on the health of many children.
Both previously healthy children and those with existing health conditions had reported new symptoms that affected school attendance, concentration and overall wellbeing, she added.
“There is strong evidence that preventing infection is key to preventing Long Covid. Children deserve every opportunity to grow up healthy and thrive, and that includes protecting them from preventable long-term illness.
“Long Covid is having a significant impact on children’s lives and those of family members.”
rnz.co.nz
