While there is still a lot left to learn about COVID-19, there are a number of facts that we know, one of which is that children face less severe cases. The question that arises is why? Experts at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) took on this question and published their findings in Archives of Disease in Childhood.
Children and COVID-19
Medical professionals have been trying to understand why children experience such mild cases of the coronavirus, even those who live with risk factors like immunosuppression. The researchers from MCRI, working in tandem with the University of Melbourne and the University of Fribourg, have found at least part of the answer in their review of global COVID-19 literature.
Endothelial cells line different organs throughout the body, especially the lymphatic vessels, heart, and blood vessels. As one ages, these cells become damaged. Medical professionals are already aware that pre-existing damage to the blood cells can worsen one’s case of COVID-19, and children have simply experienced less damage to these cells. In terms of the blood, children also have a different clotting system, making them less prone to abnormal blood clots.
The literature also pointed to chronic inflammation, especially associated with diabetes and obesity, playing a role in the severity of one’s case. Advanced age can worsen inflammation, which means that children are less prone to severe symptoms.
Immune System and COVID-19
The immune system is the first line of defense against foreign invaders, and children have a stronger immune response than adults. “Trained immunity” is another advantage that children hold. Vaccinations and other viral illnesses teach immune cells how to fight off viruses, which could make children more effective in clearing the body of COVID-19.
Microbacteria in the lungs, stomach, throat, and nose are also important to defense against viruses. Children typically have more of these bacteria, which leaves less room for COVID-19 to grow and spread. Lastly, vitamin D levels are higher in children, and this vitamin holds anti-inflammatory properties.
Overall, there are a number of reasons that children experience less severe cases of COVID-19. While not all are fully understood yet, this research helps to clear things up.
Find the source article here.
