Long-Haul COVID Effects On Kids Leave Families With Few Answers

Ian Varis, a 12-year-old from Illinois, faces long COVID symptoms after excelling in Taekwondo. Diagnosed with post COVID encephalitis, Ian struggles with headaches and fatigue, impacting his daily life. Experts highlight the challenges of diagnosing long COVID in children, with symptoms like brain fog and mental health issues. Research efforts, including the RECOVER trial, aim to find solutions. Ian's family remains hopeful, cherishing his resilience and daily miracles.

What are some of the symptoms Ian Varis experiences due to long COVID?

• Headaches, stomach aches, and dizzy spells

• Fever and cough

• Rash and itching

• Sore throat and runny nose

Why is long COVID particularly challenging to diagnose in children?

• Children often exaggerate their symptoms

• Symptoms like brain fog are hard to define in young children

• Children recover too quickly to diagnose

• There is no medical test available for children

What percentage of children who get sick with COVID are reported to have long COVID symptoms?

• 4%

• 50%

• 25%

• 10%

What is the RECOVER trial aiming to achieve?

• To eliminate COVID-19 entirely

• To provide immediate treatment for long COVID

• To study long COVID and find answers for affected families

• To develop a vaccine for long COVID

How does Ian Varis find comfort despite his long COVID symptoms?

• By playing sports

• Through magic gaming cards and superheroes

• By traveling with his family

• Through meditation and yoga