Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Children with Chronic Pulmonary Disease Followed at a Tertiary Center in Denmark

During the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals with chronic pulmonary diseases, including children, were identified as being at an elevated risk of severe SARS-COV-2 illness. This study aimed to assess the effects of lockdowns, self-isolation, and SARS-CoV-2 infection on their physical health. <bold>Methods:</bold> This single-center cohort study conducted at the Danish Pediatric Pulmonary Service included 269 children with various pulmonary diseases. Data collected between March 1, 2019, and March 1, 2022, included age, SARS-CoV-2 testing, hospital admissions, vaccinations, lung function (FEV1) before and during the lockdown, and mortality. Positive cases completed a symptom questionnaire. Public data on age-matched background population (BP) were used for comparison. <bold>Results:</bold> 269 children with chronic pulmonary diseases were enrolled in the study (50% male, mean age 9.7, range 0.7-18.9 years, PCD 6%, CF 27%, asthma 17%, chILD 2%, and other pulmonary conditions 30%). 50% tested positive for SARS-COV-2, compared to 68 % of the BP (p <0.0001). 81% (110) completed the questionnaire, showing that 11% were asymptomatic, while 89% experienced various symptoms. Three (1.1%) children were hospitalized but recovered quickly without intensive care. No deaths occurred. Vaccination rates were significantly higher in the study group than the BP, especially among 5- to 11-year-olds (47% vs. 32%, p <0.0001). Mean FEV1 z-scores remained stable. <bold>Conclusions:</bold> Lockdown measures, including testing and vaccination, significantly reduced COVID-19 rates among children with chronic pulmonary diseases without major health impacts or mortality. The necessity of these measures remains unclear.