A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Initial Literature Regarding COVID-19 Symptoms in Children in the United States.

INTRODUCTION

COVID-19 symptom presentation among adults is mostly understood. However, understanding COVID-19 symptom presentation in children lags.

METHOD

A literature search was conducted in three electronic databases. Twenty-three initial publications addressing COVID-19 symptom presentation among hospitalized children in the United States met the criteria for review and meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Fever, the most common symptom, was present in nearly all cases. Gastrointestinal, respiratory, oral symptoms, and rash occurred in over half of the cases. Disease severity assessment showed that comorbidities were present in one-third of patients; intensive care was needed for half of the patients, and supplemental oxygen and mechanical ventilation were needed by 13.3% and 7.1%, respectively.

DISCUSSION

The magnitude and significance of COVID-19 symptoms in children compared with those in adults and three common childhood viral illnesses: influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and gastroenteritis, are discussed. Important clinical differences were found that may help clinicians distinguish COVID-19 from other illnesses.