COVID-19 Infection in Children, Infants and Pregnant Subjects: An Overview of Recent Insights and Therapies

Microorganisms. 2021 Sep 16;9(9):1964. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms9091964.

Abstract

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has involved a severe increase of cases worldwide in a wide range of populations. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate recent insights about COVID-19 infection in children, infants and pregnant subjects.

Methods: a literature overview was performed including clinical trials, in vitro studies, reviews and published guidelines regarding the present paper topic. A descriptive synthesis was performed to evaluate recent insights and the effectiveness of therapies for SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, infants and pregnant subjects.

Results: Insufficient data are available regarding the relationship between COVID-19 and the clinical risk of spontaneous abortion and premature foetus death. A decrease in the incidence of COVID-19 could be correlated to a minor expression of ACE2 in childrens' lungs. At present, a modulation of the dose-effect posology for children and infants is necessary.

Conclusions: Pregnant vertical transmission has been hypothesised for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Vaccines are necessary to achieve mass immunity for children and also pregnant subjects.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2; children; coronavirus-19; pandemics; pregnant; therapy.

Publication types

  • Review