Covid-19 in Children: A Review of the Manifestations and Treatment Options

The global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 with more than a million cases and more than 50.000 deaths as of 4th April 2020 remains a source of concern to humans. The initial impression that children have been less susceptible to the virus when compared with adults has changed recently, with an increasing number of paediatric data becoming more available. The paediatric data have shown a very low mortality rate among the children. The studies in children from China showed the predominance of respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms; however, few studies outside china reported the absence of gastrointestinal symptoms. Also, the guidelines on the use of specific antiviral and other therapeutic agents in children are limited to few drugs with the use of some of them on compassionate ground. Thus, we have summarized the various clinical manifestations and treatment options of the Covid-19 in childhood since the current outbreak started. This may be of benefits to clinicians and policymakers. Finally, we have also reviewed the various studies on COVID-19 concerning their strength and weakness.