Hygiene practices in children and adolescents to prevent COVID-19 transmission (Literature review)

Abstract

Socio-economic outcome of long-term SARS-CoV-2 pandemic poses a major health risk to children. A high number of neurological disturbances and nutrition-associated problems are reported. Hygiene is one of the most important measures to avoid the novel coronavirus infection. Children and adolescents commonly constitute a special population, as disease severity in this group significantly differs from that in middle-aged and senior groups. Lockdown and transition to remote learning result in numerous reasons for emotional stress such as a dramatically altered way of life and education, and an important reduction of physical activity. The basic hygienic measures for children and adolescents included lockdown and transition to remote learning. An altered way of life caused strong emotions and poor academic achievements. As time passes, based on numerous statistical data, we can conclude that the role of children in the infection transmission and spread is insignificant. In spite of doubtful effectiveness of transition to online learning and an abundance of negative consequences for children’s mental health, some authors report that closure of schools resulted in a reduced number of those affected and decreased mortality rate. Hand hygiene is a very important way to prevent the spread of infections. Hygiene promotion aimed at children and adolescents is lacking during the pandemic, as explanatory talks are mainly given by parents.