Risk factors for death among children and young people hospitalized with COVID-19: a literature review

Background and Objective: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been a most important global issue since December 2019. Although for children, the clinical course of COVID-19 is milder, it may still cause a multi-system inflammatory syndrome and has rendered 22,000 deaths among children and young people. The objective of this review is to provide up-to-date information about COVID-19 related mortality and relevant risk factors in children and young people. Methods: Searches for studies were conducted using PubMed and Web of Science, with a date time up to April 22, 2022. Only publications in English were included. Key Content and Findings: With the Omicron being the dominant circulating variant, the absolute risk of death from COVID-19 is extremely low in children and young people. We found that those who are with multiple co-morbidities, from non-white ethnic groups, and in low- and middle-income countries might have increased risk of intensive care unit admission and death. And vaccination is always critical to reduce the incidence of severe COVID-19 cases. Conclusions: This review provides an overview of the COVID-19 related mortality and relevant risk factors. Since this disorder continues to evolve, a prompt diagnosis and treatment strategy will allow for the best possible care and outcome for patients with COVID-19.