A few weeks ago, millions of kids made their way back to school, many returning for the first time in over a year and a half. This transition has come amid ongoing efforts to ensure safety from a virus that remains prevalent. While the logistics of this return are complex—mask mandates, social distancing, and quarantining exposed students—one critical aspect has been overlooked: how to effectively support students dealing with long-haul COVID.
The Reality of Long COVID in Kids
Initially, parents were reassured with the notion that COVID-19 posed little threat to children. However, this has proven to be a misconception. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 5.7 million children have tested positive for COVID-19, with studies indicating that between 11% and 15% may experience Long COVID—characterized by lingering symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches, brain fog, and loss of taste or smell. These symptoms can significantly disrupt a child’s daily life and educational experience.
Experts have yet to determine why some children endure these prolonged symptoms while others recover quickly. Additionally, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment available for those affected.
Long COVID’s Impact on Education
As students return to the classroom, the challenges posed by Long COVID are becoming increasingly apparent. School closures and difficulties with remote learning have already set many children back academically. For instance, children like ten-year-old Alex, who experiences dizziness and fatigue, or eight-year-old Mia, who has struggled to engage during both remote and in-person classes, risk falling even further behind.
“The potential impact is considerable,” says Dr. Jacob Reyes, a specialist in pediatric infectious diseases. “These formative years are crucial. Falling behind can lead to a loss of self-confidence, creating a negative cycle.”
Federal Guidelines for Accommodations
This past summer, the Biden administration acknowledged that Long COVID may qualify as a disability under federal guidelines, prompting the Department of Education to provide guidance on how schools can accommodate affected students. Some children may require extended time for tests, additional support from teaching assistants, or access to virtual learning options.
However, the situation is far from straightforward. We still lack clarity on whether Long COVID symptoms are temporary or permanent. Preliminary research suggests that about half of children may see their symptoms resolve within three months, while the other half might continue to experience issues. “We simply don’t have enough data,” notes Dr. Olivia Chang, a researcher at the University of California.
As a result, schools will need to adapt continually to students’ evolving needs, requiring resources that are already stretched thin during this pandemic.
The Role of Parents and Vaccines
Parents must remain proactive in advocating for their children, especially as schools navigate the complexities of providing equitable access to education. This is particularly crucial given that schools are already overwhelmed with pandemic-related logistics.
Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for mitigating the impact of COVID-19 and reducing the risk of Long COVID. Recent studies suggest that vaccines can halve the risk of Long COVID in adults with breakthrough infections. Unfortunately, children under the age of twelve are not yet eligible for vaccination in the U.S., though that may soon change.
In the meantime, it’s essential to continue practicing safety measures—wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and getting vaccinated as soon as possible.
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Summary
As children return to classrooms, the need for accommodations for those suffering from Long COVID becomes evident. With millions affected and the potential for lasting impacts on education and self-esteem, schools must adapt to support these students effectively. Vaccination and parental advocacy are key in navigating these challenges.
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