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Recently, millions of children returned to school, many for the first time in over a year. This return comes amidst ongoing efforts to keep students safe from a still-prevalent virus. While some may try to assign blame, it’s more important to focus on the complex logistics that schools face, including mask mandates, social distancing, and various community sentiments regarding these measures.
Unfortunately, a crucial aspect of this return has been largely overlooked: the need to support students suffering from long-haul COVID. Many school districts are struggling to determine how best to assist these students, as the situation remains relatively new and complicated.
Understanding Long COVID in Children
At the onset of the pandemic, parents were reassured that COVID-19 posed minimal risk to children. However, recent data reveals a different reality. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, over 5.7 million children have tested positive for COVID-19, with studies showing that approximately 11 to 15 percent may develop Long COVID—a condition characterized by persistent symptoms post-infection. For children, these symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches, brain fog, and sensory loss, which can significantly impact their daily lives.
The reasons why some children experience prolonged symptoms while others recover quickly remain unclear, and there’s no universal treatment available.
The Impact of Long COVID in the Classroom
As students return to school, the effects of Long COVID are becoming increasingly evident. Many children fell behind academically during school closures and the challenges of remote learning. For example, kids like twelve-year-old Emma, who struggles with dizziness and fatigue, or eight-year-old Leo, who finds it difficult to engage in both remote and in-person classes, are at risk of further academic decline.
Experts are raising concerns about the long-term implications. Dr. Michael Greene, a pediatric neurologist, emphasized the significance of these formative years. “Falling behind at this stage can lead to a loss of confidence and a downward spiral,” he warned.
Federal Guidelines for Accommodations
In response to the challenges posed by Long COVID, President Biden announced that it could be classified as a disability under federal guidelines. The Department of Education subsequently issued guidance to assist schools in determining which accommodations might be necessary. These could range from extended test-taking time to more personalized support or access to remote learning options.
However, the situation is far from straightforward. It remains uncertain whether Long COVID symptoms are temporary or chronic. Early research suggests that about half of affected children may see improvements within three months, while others may experience prolonged symptoms. Sarah Wulf Hanson, a researcher at the University of Washington, noted the lack of data available for effective monitoring and support.
The Role of Vaccines
Vaccines are crucial in mitigating the pandemic and reducing the incidence of Long COVID among children. A recent study indicated that vaccination could potentially halve the risk of Long COVID for adults with breakthrough infections. While this finding holds promise, children under twelve are not yet eligible for vaccination in the U.S. As districts work to support Long COVID-affected students, the emphasis on health safety measures remains more critical than ever.
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