COVID-19 Morbidity Among Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Disorder: A Matched Controlled Population-Based Study

In this study we aimed to assess whether individuals with ASD are prone to higher infection rates, or to severe COVID-19 illness. Individuals with ASD and age- and gender-matched controlled counterparts (total n = 32,812) were assessed for COVID-19 infection rates and hospitalizations. Results indicated higher infection rates among individuals with ASD, with the largest effect among individuals aged 40-60 (OR = 2.05, 95%CI 1.33-3.15, p < .001), as well as higher odds for hospitalizations, evident primarily in men (OR = 2.40, 95%CI 1.14-5.02, p = 0.02) but not women. Medical and environmental risk factors may associate ASD with higher infection and morbidity rates. Healthcare policy providers should consider proactive steps to protect this population from the associated risks.

Automated summary

This study found that individuals with ASD are more susceptible to COVID-19 infection, especially those aged 40-60. There is also a higher likelihood of hospitalization among individuals with ASD, particularly in men. Medical and environmental risk factors may contribute to the higher infection and morbidity rates among individuals with ASD.