RESUMEN
To determine the characteristics of pediatric patients 0-19 years of age who died after onset of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Japan during January 1-September 30, 2022, we reviewed multiple sources. We identified 62 cases, collected detailed information from medical records and death certificates, and conducted interviews, resulting in 53 patients with detailed information for our study. Among 46 patients with internal causes of death (i.e., not external causes such as trauma), 15% were <1 year of age, 59% had no underlying disease, and 88% eligible for vaccination were unvaccinated. Nonrespiratory symptoms were more common than respiratory symptoms. Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest affected 46% of patients, and time from symptom onset to death was <7 days for 77%. Main suspected causes of death were central nervous system abnormalities (35%) and cardiac abnormalities (20%). We recommend careful follow-up of pediatric patients after SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first week after symptom onset, regardless of underlying diseases.
Asunto(s)
COVID-19 , SARS-CoV-2 , Humanos , COVID-19/mortalidad , COVID-19/epidemiología , Preescolar , Lactante , Niño , Japón/epidemiología , Femenino , Masculino , Adolescente , Recién Nacido , Adulto JovenRESUMEN
Although immunization is essential for maintaining public health, adverse events following immunization (AEFI) occur at a certain rate. Therefore, it is extremely important to conduct postimmunization safety monitoring and relief systems to ensure the safe implementation of immunizations for the public. This article summarizes the monitoring system of AEFI and the unique compensation system (so-called relief system) in Japan. In addition, current problems and issues on the AEFI monitoring and relief system will be specified, and immunization-related systems planned to be built in the future in Japan will be introduced.