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Respiratory sequelae after COVID-19 infection in Thai healthy children
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  • Sirapoom Niamsanit,
  • Wicharn Boonjindasup,
  • Suchada Sritippayawan,
  • Jitladda Deerojanawong,
  • Nuanchan Prapphal,
  • Chanthana Harnruthakorn,
  • Jiratchaya Sophonphan,
  • Watit Niyomkarn
Sirapoom Niamsanit
King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital Department of Pediatrics
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Wicharn Boonjindasup
King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital Department of Pediatrics
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Suchada Sritippayawan
King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital Department of Pediatrics
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Jitladda Deerojanawong
King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital Department of Pediatrics
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Nuanchan Prapphal
King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital Department of Pediatrics
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Chanthana Harnruthakorn
King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital Department of Pediatrics
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Jiratchaya Sophonphan
HIV Netherlands Australia Thailand Research Collaboration
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Watit Niyomkarn
King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital Department of Pediatrics

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

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.
20 Nov 2023Submitted to Pediatric Pulmonology
20 Nov 2023Submission Checks Completed
20 Nov 2023Assigned to Editor
20 Nov 2023Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
03 Jul 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Major
18 Sep 20241st Revision Received
20 Sep 2024Submission Checks Completed
20 Sep 2024Assigned to Editor
20 Sep 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
20 Sep 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
07 Oct 2024Editorial Decision: Accept