The impact of COVID-19 on the health of children, a group "protected" from infection

Objective: This article underlines that a viral epidemic and strategies to deal with it 1) have a major impact on groups that are a priori spared by the disease itself, in this case children, and 2) can generate health problems beyond the disease and lead to major social, economic and educational difficulties and an increase of social inequalities in health. Method: The observations presented are based on the scientific literature available in the first half of 2020 and on discussions with actors in the field, experts and heads of institutions, conducted by a working group of the Haut Conseil de la Sante Publique reflecting on a global and concerted policy for children's health. Results: The health crisis and its management have had an impact on children's development and their quality of life. They have been more exposed to sedentary lifestyles, screens, accidents, and violence at home. The closure of schools and leisure facilities has led to difficulties in school, socialization, psychological well-being and mental health. Curative or preventive care has been postponed. These effects occurred with significant social and territorial inequalities. Conclusion: Any health crisis management requires an assessment of the overall impact of the epidemic and the proposed measures on health, economic, social, and educational indicators. This crisis shows the need for a coordinated children's policy, which is not currently the case in France.