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.