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Review
. 2021 Feb 1;33(1):129-135.
doi: 10.1097/MOP.0000000000000983.

Acute severe respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 treatment overview for pediatrics

Mark E Murphy  1   2 , Gwendolyn Clay  3 , Lara Danziger-Isakov  1   4 , Grant Schulert  3   4 , Grant C Paulsen  1   4
Affiliations
Review

Acute severe respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 treatment overview for pediatrics

Mark E Murphy et al. Curr Opin Pediatr. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: The novel severe respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has caused a world-wide pandemic with devastating effects. Fortunately, most children display only mild-to-moderate symptoms, but there are a subset that will have severe symptoms warranting treatment. This review evaluates the current evidence for antiviral and anti-inflammatory treatment of acute SARS-COV-2 infections, including coronavirus disease 2019 in pediatrics.

Recent findings: Treatment recommendations continue to evolve with emerging results from clinical trials. Initial therapies were tailored to repurposed medications, and have now transitioned toward more specific antiviral therapy. In addition to specific antiviral therapy, there is also support to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammatory damage seen in coronavirus disease 2019. Much of the data result from adult studies with subsequent extrapolation to pediatrics.

Summary: Recommended therapy will continue to adapt as results return from clinical trials. A continued commitment from the National Institutes of Health and research community to assist in determining optimal therapies for pediatric patients is essential. Until then, most recommendations will likely be informed from the results seen in adult populations.

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Conflict of interest statement

COI:

MM has been a paid speaker for Beton Dickinson. LDI receives consulting fees from Merck and Takeda, participates in a DSMB for Astellas, and has research support from Ansun Biopharma, Astellas, Merck, Takeda and Viracor. GCP has received travel support from Merck, Sharp & Dohme for required study-related meetings.

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    2. This article is the updated expert gudiance from the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society on the treatment of acute COVID-19 in pediatrics.

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