COVID-19 has largely receded, but its lingering effects on children remain a concern. New federal data reveals that over 1 million American children may have been affected by long COVID in 2023.
Long COVID, also known as post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS), refers to a group of health problems persisting or developing after an initial period of COVID-19 infection. Symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years and often have a debilitating impact on daily life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.01 million children in the US, or 1.4%, are believed to have ever experienced long COVID in 2023. The condition was most prevalent among Hispanic and non-Hispanic white children compared to non-Hispanic Black and Asian children.
Children with lower family incomes and those with less education were also more likely to be affected by long COVID. Those currently experiencing the condition reported significant activity limitations, highlighting the need for further research on the severity of symptoms and functional outcomes.
Symptoms of long COVID include fatigue, memory problems, shortness of breath, sleep disorders, headaches, mental health issues, muscle weakness, fever, and cognitive dysfunction. The exact causes are not yet fully understood but may be linked to underlying conditions, viral persistence, or other mechanisms.
There is currently no established effective treatment for long COVID, making it potentially terminal. Management of symptoms depends on individual needs, including rest, pacing, fluid intake, and compression garments. Healthcare providers emphasize the importance of seeking help sooner rather than later, especially for mothers and children.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/suffering-from-long-covid-cdc-study-suggests-shocking-facts/articleshow/117925681.cms