HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – One in five adults who’ve had COVID-19 are dealing with lingering symptoms, but long-term COVID in kids remains a mystery.
That’s according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
So the National Institute of Health is conducting a four-year long COVID study and Hawaii keiki are participating to get answers.
Nearly 50 pediatric sites across the country, including Kapiolani Medical Center, are participating in the study.
Doctors said some children have struggled with symptoms perhaps four to six weeks after a COVID infection even after a mild case.
Pediatric hospitalist at the Kapiolani Medical Center Dr. Jessica Kosut said symptoms can include fatigue, brain fog, concentration issues or changes in stools.
“I think the question is, what are all those subtle things that may be occurring that we don’t know?” said Kosut.
For the study, participants will take blood tests at home as well as take questionnaires. They’ll also find out their antibodies from vaccines and prior infection.
According to researchers, you don’t need to have had COVID to be in the study.
So far, 18 Hawaii families have signed up and doctors said the study needs more children from the islands.
Kosut said she also enrolled her own children who recovered after mild cases.
“We know COVID impacted Hispanics and Blacks,” Kosut added. “But what about the disproportionate effect on Pacific Islanders, Native Hawaiians, and the mixed race culture that we have?”
“That’s what I think the study is hoping to find.”
To enroll in the study, click here.
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