Active surveillance of the SARS-CoV-2 infection in children of under 15 years of age admitted to hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: various strategies have been carried out by Health Authorities regarding the early detection and control of the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, including active infection surveillance in hospital admissions.

Objectives: to describe the active surveillance of the SARS-CoV-2 infection in children of <15 years of age admitted to hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic at a private health provider, in the interior of the country.

Methodology: observational, descriptive, prospective study of children of <15 years of age admitted to hospital from 4/1/2020 to 4/30/2021 at CRAMI IAMPP Hospital. Active surveillance according to the guidelines of the Ministry of Public Health: PCR Test for SARS-CoV-2 prior to hospital admission, plus an interview regarding contact history with a positive COVID-19 case and symptoms suggesting infection.

Data: cause of admission (medical or surgical), type (coordinated, emergency or interhospital transfer), monitoring of symptoms. Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, frequencies and percentages were calculated.

Results: admission to moderate care was indicated for 231 children of <15 years. Males 129 (56%), average age 6.5 years. Cause of admission: surgical 60% (coordinated 53%); 89 (40%) due to medical pathology (20% infectious, 19% neurological, 15% respiratory, etc.). None were admitted due to suspicion or confirmation of COVID 19. Positive PCR was detected in a child coordinated for a procedure that was suspended. Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection: 0.4/100 hospital admissions. No cases of nosocomial infection.

Conclusions: active surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children of <15 years of age with hospital admission criteria was adequate. The incidence of infection was very low and no intrahospital transmission was confirmed.