Assessment of the state of children after COVID-19 and other acute respiratory infections using the ISARIC COVID-19 survey

Introduction. The state of children had suffered from COVID-19 causes various persistent symptoms affecting on patient well-being and quality of life which is a significant healthcare issue.

The aim of the work. To assess health and well-being of children following COVID-19 and other acute respiratory infections.

Materials and methods. This is a case-control study including children with history of PCR-confirmed COVID-19 (n = 261) and other acute respiratory infections (n = 198). Patients were assessed 6 months and 1 year after the infection using the International Severe Acute Respiratory and Emerging Infection Consortium (ISARIC) COVID-19 questionnaire for children. The prevalence of symptoms including fatigue, weakness, lack of energy, as well as the emotional well-being, social relationships, and social activity of children was evaluated.

Results. Children with history of COVID-19 in six months had significantly higher rates of weakness and decreased school attendance compared to children with other acute respiratory infections. 12 months after infection, children in the case group were significantly more likely to experience poor concentration, weakness, a decreased sense of belonging and school attendance. However, 12 months after infection, control group had significantly higher rates of fatigue.

Conclusion. Children with a history of mild COVID-19 and other acute respiratory infections may experience ongoing health problems for 1 year after the infection, requiring greater attention from healthcare professionals and family members.

Contribution:
Chernyavskaya A.S., Simonova O.I. — study concept and design;
Chernyavskaya A.S., Rumyantsev M.A., Baymukhambetova D., Yezhova A.A., Pavlova M.S., Petrova P.Yu., Asanova R., Gripp M.R. — collection and processing of material;
Chernyavskaya A.S. — statistical processing of material and writing the text;
Simonova O.I. — editing.
All co-authors — approval of the final version of the article, responsibility for the integrity of all parts of the article.

Acknowledgment. The study had no sponsorship.

Conflict of interest. The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Received: October 31, 2023
Accepted: November 28, 2023
Published: December 27, 2023

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