Abstract
Introduction: Though there have been a growing number of studies focused on COVID-19, limited data is available on epidemiological features, clinical manifestations, and transmission patterns in children with COVID-19, more so from India
Methods: Retrospective study regarding the clinical and laboratory profile of pediatric COVID patients and their outcomes were studied presenting between March 2020 and August 2020 with positive nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2 by Rapid antigen testing or RT-PCR
Results: 50 COVID positive cases included in the study. Out of which 18 where neonates. Among neonates 10 out of 18 positive cases had preterm birth. Complication noted in these babies are Neonatal jaundice in 4 babies, birth asphyxia 2 cases, Respiratory distress syndrome in 3 case and one baby had meningitis. Metabolic complication like hypocalcemia and hypoglycemia noted in 2 babies. CRP found to be elevated for 5 [27.7%] babies. Among the 32COVID positive children admitted in the COVID ward, 15 did not have any complaints. Among the 17 symptomatic children ten were having fever as one of the main complaint. Upper respiratory infection in 6 patients and 3patient had pneumonia, 5 patients presented with vomiting, loose stool or both, 1 had simple febrile convulsion, 1 patient presented with AGN. Leukocytosis was seen in 15 (46%) children. Lymphopenia4 patients [12.5%], CRP 8 [25%]and elevated ESR 6[18.5%] are noted in the pediatric COVID cases. No mortality occurred in the study group.
Conclusion: Children at all ages are prone to COVID-19 and morbidity and mortality of COVID positive cases are less when compared to adult patients.
Keywords: SARS-CoV-2, Symptoms, Laboratory profile, Outcome.
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Corresponding Author
Dr Anupama Deka
Professor and HOD, Department of Pediatrics, Silchar Medical College, Silchar