Post-COVID syndrome prevalence and risk factors in children and adolescents: A population-based serological study

ABSTRACT

AO_SCPLOWBSTRACTC_SCPLOWO_ST_ABSObjectivesC_ST_ABSPost-COVID syndrome remain poorly studied in children and adolescents. In this study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of pediatric post-COVID in a population-based sample, stratifying by serological status. Study designWe used data from the SEROCoV-KIDS cohort study (State of Geneva, Switzerland), which included children (aged 6 months to 17 years) selected from random samples drawn from state registries or who had a household member participating in a COVID-19 seroprevalence study conducted by our group. Children were tested for anti-SARS-CoV-2 N antibodies. Parents filled in a questionnaire on persistent symptoms in their children (lasting over 12 weeks) compatible with post-COVID syndrome. ResultsFrom December 1st, 2021 to February 16th, 2022, 1034 children were included, among whom 570 (55.1%) were seropositive. The sex- and age-adjusted prevalence of persistent symptoms among seropositive children was 9.1% (95%CI 6.7;11.8) and 5.0% (95%CI 3.0;7.1) among seronegatives, with an adjusted prevalence difference ({Delta}aPrev) of 4.1% (95%CI 1.1;7.3). After stratification by age group, the prevalence was higher among adolescents aged 12-17 years ({Delta}aPrev=8.3%, 95%CI 3.5;13.5) than among younger children (0.0%, 95%CI -5.2;5.2 among 6-11 years old and 4.2%; 95%CI -4.4;13.3 among 0-5 years old). The most frequently declared persistent symptoms among seropositives were smell loss, trouble concentrating and abdominal pain. Older age, having a chronic condition and lower socioeconomic conditions were identified as risk factors. ConclusionA significant proportion of seropositive children, particularly adolescents, experienced persistent symptoms. While there is a need for further investigation, growing evidence of pediatric post-COVID syndrome urges early screening and primary care management.