The Impact of post COVID-19 syndrome in adolescents: A pilot study.
Abstract
Background: Post COVID-19 syndrome has emerged as a long-term
complication in adults and children, its effect on adolescents’
performance in school is not well studied. Methods: This is a
survey of children in grades 10-12 looking into the
physical/psychological impact of prolonged post COVID-19 symptoms on
school performance. Results: 32/54 students with a mean age of
16 years old had COVID-19. Two were hospitalized, 10 had symptoms
lasting more than 4 weeks. Commonly reported chronic symptoms were
fatigue and cough. Seven students quit sports, 8 had decrease in their
academic performance. Adolescents with a family history of long haulers
and those being infected more than once where more likely to develop
prolonged symptoms, quit sports and perform poorly in school. 3/14
(21%) reported not seeking help. Conclusion: Post COVID-19
syndrome is associated with decline in physical and mental performance
in school yet only 79% of adolescents will talk about it.