Review of Pediatric Tuberculosis in the Aftermath of COVID-19

In 2014, the World Health Organization developed the End Tuberculosis Strategy with the goal of a 95% reduction in deaths from tuberculosis (TB) by 2035. The start of the COVID-19 pandemic and global lockdown has had a major impact on TB awareness, screening, diagnosis, and prompt initiation of treatment, inevitably leading to a significant setback. We explore pediatric tuberculosis through the lens of the COVID-19 era, investigating how COVID-19 has impacted pediatric TB cases in different regions of the world and what the implications are for management moving forward to mitigate these effects. Furthermore, in light of recent findings showing how exposed infants and children are at higher risk than we thought of contracting the disease, greater attention and resources are needed to prevent further downward trends.

Automated summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on TB awareness, screening, diagnosis, and treatment initiation worldwide, particularly in the management of pediatric TB. Recent findings also indicate a higher risk of infection for exposed children, necessitating greater preventive measures.