Title of the article: Respiratory sequelae after COVID-19 infection in Thai healthy children
Sirapoom Niamsanit1, Wicharn Boonjindasup1, Suchada Sritippayawan1, Jitladda Deerojanawong1, Nuanchan Prapphal1, Chanthana Harnruthakorn1, Jiratchaya Sophonphan2, Watit Niyomkarn1
1 Division of Pulmonology and Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
2 The HIV Netherlands Australia Thailand Research Collaboration (HIV-NAT), Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre, Bangkok, ThailandAbstract:
Background and Aims: The long-term respiratory sequelae of COVID-19 infection in children remain poorly understood and may differ across countries. This study aims to investigate the respiratory sequelae, including residual respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function in Thai children. The secondary aim is to identify factors associated with the respiratory sequelae.
Materials and Methods: This is an observational study involving 56 healthy children, aged between 7-18 years, who were diagnosed with COVID-19 infection from July 2021 to February 2023. Clinical data relating to COVID-19 infection and persistent symptoms after the infection were assessed after the infection up to six months. Spirometry was performed to assess pulmonary function.
Results: Post COVID-19 symptoms were identified in 14 patients (25%), with fatigue, cough, and dyspnea being common symptoms (28-35%). A significant correlation was found between post COVID-19 symptoms and pneumonia (OR = 6.00, 95%CI [1.54,23.33], p=0.01). Abnormal pulmonary function was identified in 10 patients (17.8%) with obstructive impairment being the most common. However, there were no significant association between clinical factors and pulmonary function impairment.
Conclusion: Prolonged respiratory symptoms and abnormal pulmonary function following COVID-19 infection are not uncommon in children. The post COVID-19 symptoms are possibly associated with COVID-19 pneumonia.
Key-words: post COVID-19, pulmonary function test, pediatric
Key Messages: After COVID-19 infection, healthy children may exhibit persistent symptoms and abnormal pulmonary function. Although those who developed COVID-19 pneumonia are at a greater risk for the prolong symptoms, some children with less severe diseases also had the respiratory sequalae.