A large US study has explored how Long COVID in children and adolescents may be associated with difficulties at school.
Researchers analysed data from almost 2,000 children and young people aged 6–17 participating in the NIH RECOVER-Pediatrics study. They compared those who met the RECOVER research threshold for probable Long COVID with those who did not.
The findings suggest that probable Long COVID was associated with greater difficulties with grades, attention and participation with friends.
Our latest research summary breaks down what the study found, its limitations and why the findings matter.
Children and adolescents meeting the RECOVER research threshold for probable Long COVID were more likely to experience difficulties with grades, attention and social participation than those who did not meet the threshold.
“Probable Long COVID” was defined using the RECOVER research index and does not represent a clinical diagnosis.
For children and young people living with Long COVID, difficulties with concentration, learning or social participation may affect their experience of school as well as their health.
These findings reinforce the importance of listening to children and families when they report changes in school functioning and recognising that the impact of Long COVID may extend beyond physical symptoms. Further research is needed to understand what forms of educational support are most helpful.
Read the full study: Reeder HT, Kleinman LC, Stockwell MS, et al. (2026). School Difficulties and Long COVID in Children and Adolescents. Read on PubMed
Explore more: Read our other research summaries on Long COVID and related healthcare research.
This research summary is an independent educational resource produced to help make published healthcare research more accessible.
It is provided for educational and awareness purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or replace professional medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment. Please speak to an appropriately qualified healthcare professional about your individual circumstances.
AI-assisted tools were used to support the development and communication of this research summary. All content has been independently reviewed and edited by a member of SHH-UK to ensure scientific accuracy, balance and readability.
A large US study of almost 2,000 children and adolescents found that those meeting the research threshold for probable Long COVID were more likely to experience difficulties with grades, attention and participation with friends.
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