Restrictive Measures for Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Are They Scientifically Supported?

Nicola Principi,Susanna Esposito

doi:10.3389/fped.2021.573061

Abstract

OPINION article Front. Pediatr., 22 April 2021Sec. Pediatric Immunology Volume 9 - 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2021.573061

Highlights

To reduce severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) circulation and contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in most countries, national governments have implemented restrictive measures, such as physical distancing, lockdown, restrictions of movement and border closures, and surveillance strategies
No data on pediatric intensive care unit admission are available from Africa and Australia [4], these findings suggest that children have only a small role in COVID-19 epidemiology, and that restrictions to their lifestyle habits, including school attendance, are not justified
As the density of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptors in the cells of the different body tissues seems to be significantly lower in children than in adults, it was thought that this could condition a lower cytolytic effect of SARS-CoV-2 [6]

Summary

Introduction

To reduce severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) circulation and contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in most countries, national governments have implemented restrictive measures, such as physical distancing, lockdown, restrictions of movement and border closures, and surveillance strategies. Epidemiological studies indicate that both the global incidence rate of COVID-19 in children and the prevalence in children with severe disease are extremely low. No data on pediatric intensive care unit admission are available from Africa and Australia [4], these findings suggest that children have only a small role in COVID-19 epidemiology, and that restrictions to their lifestyle habits, including school attendance, are not justified.

Results

Conclusion