Cause for Concern: Children in Japan at Risk of Fatal COVID-19 Infection Released Early Study Shows

The Omicron variant of COVID-19 led to a rise in pediatric cases, prompting investigations into fatal outcomes among children in Japan.

A study conducted in Japan aimed to determine the characteristics of fatal cases in children after SARS-CoV-2 infection during the Omicron variant period.
The study identified 62 fatal pediatric cases with the majority of deaths being caused by CNS abnormalities, followed by cardiac abnormalities.
Nonrespiratory symptoms were found to be more common than respiratory symptoms before hospital admission in pediatric patients.
The study highlighted the importance of careful observation of pediatric patients during the first 7 days from onset of COVID-19, regardless of underlying diseases, as most deaths occurred rapidly within that period.
The data collected from multiple sources and field investigations provided valuable insights into fatal cases among children after SARS-CoV-2 infection, emphasizing the need for further research and monitoring in pediatric populations.

Report from NASEM finds disparities in healthcare access for many Americans