Vaccinated children are significantly less likely to develop long COVID than those who are unvaccinated, according to a recent study. Researchers hope this evidence convinces more parents to keep their children’s COVID-19 vaccinations up to date—even as public concern over the virus continues to decline.
While many parents skip vaccination for their children due to the typically mild nature of pediatric COVID-19 cases, the new research emphasizes that post-COVID conditions (PCC)—commonly called long COVID—can still have a serious impact on kids.
What the Study Revealed
Conducted across four U.S. states between July 2021 and May 2023, the study tracked children aged 5 to 17 who had tested positive for COVID-19. Among the 622 children included:
- 28 children (5%) reported symptoms of PCC.
- 594 children (95%) did not report symptoms.
Children who were vaccinated before infection were 57% less likely to develop one or more symptoms of long COVID. Moreover, vaccination was associated with:
- 73% reduced risk of developing two or more PCC symptoms.
- 72% reduced risk of experiencing respiratory symptoms.
What Is PCC (Post-COVID Condition)?
PCC is defined as an illness persisting four weeks or more after the initial infection. Symptoms in children included:
- Respiratory issues: shortness of breath, nasal congestion, coughing
- Fatigue and weakness
- Difficulty exercising
- Mood changes and sleep disturbance
- In rare cases: serious symptoms like pulmonary embolism, myocarditis, kidney failure, or even type 1 diabetes
What This Means for Parents
CDC researchers involved in the study stressed that vaccination both reduces the risk of PCC and the severity of its symptoms, even if breakthrough infections occur.
Dr. William Schaffner, infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University and CDC advisor, called the study “well-done” and noted that it reinforces the benefits of vaccination seen in both children and adults.
Despite widespread exposure to COVID-19 among American children, Schaffner insists vaccination remains critical, especially because the virus continues to mutate. Like the seasonal flu vaccine, COVID vaccines are regularly updated to match new variants.
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