A new study reveals that children with multiple long-term health conditions are almost three times more likely to die from COVID-19 than those without such conditions. The mortality rate for these children is 22%, compared to 8% for children without multiple conditions.
The research, which analyzed data from over four million COVID-19 patients, highlights the severe impact of the virus on individuals with multiple health issues. The study examined 111 observational studies from 51 countries, focusing on high-risk or hospitalized patients, which may explain the elevated mortality rates observed.
The findings stress the need for prioritizing patients with multiple long-term conditions in healthcare policies, especially during public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. While past studies have identified risk factors like age and pre-existing conditions, this research points to the growing concern for those managing multiple health challenges.
For all ages, individuals with multiple conditions face 2.4 times the risk of hospitalization, with this figure rising to 3.5 times for children. The likelihood of needing mechanical ventilation is 1.8 times higher for all ages and 4.3 times greater for children. ICU admission is also more likely, with a 1.2 times increased risk for all ages and nearly three times higher for children.
The study calls for urgent action to protect this vulnerable population, as a significant portion of the global population, including more than a quarter of adults in England, lives with two or more long-term health conditions.
