Prolonged presence of SARS-CoV-2 in feces of pediatric patients during the convalescent phase

Yuhan Xing; Wei Ni; Qin Wu; Wenjie Li; Guoju Li; Jianning Tong; Xiufeng Song; Quansheng Xing

From available data, children appeared to be slightly affected by SARS-CoV-2, a feature resembling that of SARS-CoV emerged 17 years ago. 20 However, the relatively low attack rate of COVID-19 in children could be explained by the stringent implementation of home confinement and prolonged school closure during the outbreak as required by the Chinese governments. Whether it is also the case during school year is hard to tell. One distinct feature of pediatric cases is that almost all of them are infected through household contact with adult patients. [9] [10] [11] [12] 21 As with all new diseases, many characteristics of COVID-19 still remain largely unknown. There is limited data to support the notion that children are less susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection or virus transmission is less effective among them. Viral RNA has been constantly detected in stool samples and anal swabs collected from confirmed cases of COVID-19. 5, [22] [23] [24] [25] In one study, fecal specimens from 9 (53%) of 17 patients were positive for nucleic acid testing, although viral loads of the stool were less than those of respiratory samples. 24 Presence of SARS-CoV-2 was even detected in environmental samples taken from the surface of toilet bowl and sink in infection isolation rooms. 26 Moreover, SARS-CoV-2 remained viable in the stool of infected patients as reported by some case reports. 18 Evidence so far indicates the potential for SARS-CoV-2 to be transmitted through fecal excretion. 18 Although the role of fecal shedding in viral All rights reserved. No reuse allowed without permission.