To evaluate the risk of multisystemic complications following dengue infection compared to SARS-CoV-2 infection in a pediatric population, emphasizing the comparative aspect.
Key Findings:
Increased risk of postacute gastrointestinal sequelae (aHR, 2.98; 95% CI, 1.18–7.18) and specifically appendicitis (aHR, 3.50; 95% CI, 1.36–8.99) after dengue compared to SARS-CoV-2.
Lower risk of any sequelae (aHR, 0.42; 95% CI, .29–.61) and respiratory sequelae (aHR, 0.17; 95% CI, .09–.31) in children infected with dengue compared to those with unvaccinated COVID-19.
Overall lower risk of postacute complications observed in children following dengue infection versus COVID-19.
Interpretation:
While dengue infection is associated with a higher risk of appendicitis, it generally presents a lower risk of postacute complications compared to SARS-CoV-2 infection in children, suggesting a need for targeted public health strategies.
Limitations:
The study is retrospective and relies on national registries, which may have reporting biases that could affect the outcomes.
Potential confounding factors not accounted for in the analysis could influence the outcomes, such as preexisting health conditions.
Conclusion:
Public health strategies should consider the chronic postinfectious sequelae of both dengue and COVID-19 in children, including targeted interventions to mitigate their impacts.
Investigative report cites internal communications, VAERS data, and CDC case reviews describing myocarditis and pericarditis reports in adolescents and young adults after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination.
