Some features of the transmission of covid-19 infection in the child population (review)

Abstract

Introduction. During the first wave of the pandemic COVID-19, there was limited and poor quality information on the contribution of children to the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. By early August 2020, several confirmed cases of transmission from children had been published, with no clear evidence that the frequency of transmission from children is higher than that of adults. Since the beginning of the pandemic, children have accounted for 18.4 % of the total number of registered cases, and at the beginning of January 2022, 25.5 % of the total number of COVID-19 cases. Most of the new cases of the disease are Omicron strains. Even with the predicted generally less severe illness resulting from Omicron infection in children, doctors fear that more children may be hospitalized in the coming weeks, given the ever-increasing number of cases of infection with the virus. Data on the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection among children compared with adults is needed to inform COVID-19 risks and prevention strategies, including COVID-19 childhood vaccination policy. Aim. To display literature data containing a review of studies on the transmission of coronavirus infection in children; to analyze the features of the vertical transmission route. Materials and methods. An analysis was made of publications containing data from studies of cases and features of the transmission of COVID-19 disease in children, including from mother to child. Results. Currently, foreign sources note several options for the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in children. SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy may affect pregnancy outcome, delivery, and the birth of a potentially infected baby. Conclusion. Data on the risk of infection and possible routes of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in children, including vertical transmission, are needed to improve prevention methods, including immunization of pregnant women and children.