COVID-19 vaccine development: a pediatric perspective. Issue 1 (4th February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kamidani, Satoshi; Rostad, Christina A.; Anderson, Evan J.
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in pediatrics. Volume 33:Issue 1(2021)
• Page Start: 144
• Page End: 151
• Publication Date: 2021-02-04
• Subjects: child -- COVID-19 -- immunization -- pediatric -- pediatric clinical trials -- SARS-CoV-2 -- vaccination; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals -- Bibliography -- Periodicals; 618.92
• DOI: 10.1097/MOP.0000000000000978
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1040-8703

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose of review: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the novel coronavirus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has caused substantial morbidity and mortality. Operation Warp Speed aims to accelerate the development of a safe and effective vaccine by early 2021. Multiple vaccine candidates with reassuring safety and efficacy profiles have advanced to phase 3 clinical trials in adults. The purpose of this review is to describe the burden of COVID-19 in children, to update pediatricians about adult COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials, to discuss the importance of COVID-19 vaccine trials in children and to instill confidence in the established vaccine development and licensure processes. Recent findings: Children of all ages are at risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe disease manifestations. Children are also susceptible to downstream effects of COVID-19, including social isolation and interruption in education. Developing a pediatric COVID-19 vaccine could prevent disease, mitigate downstream effects and enable children to re-engage in their world. Summary: Children could benefit both directly and indirectly from vaccination. In light of the safety and immunogenicity results from recent adult COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials, children should have the opportunity to be included in clinical trials in parallel to ongoing adult phase 3 clinical trials in a manner that is careful, methodical and transparent.