Author(s): Philippine Society of Pediatric Surgeons
Amabelle A. Moreno, MD, FPSPS; Jose Modesto B. Abellera III, MD, FPSPS; Santiago C. Aquino, MD, FPSPS; Edrick H. Lim, MD, FPSPS; Richard B. Pascual, MD, FPSPS; Dures Fe E. Tagayuna, MD, FPSPS; Rodolfo G. Tuazon Jr, MD, FPSPS and Ma. Celine Isobel A. Villegas, MD, FPSPS

Abstract:
Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the novel pathogen Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It was first recognized in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and it rapidly spread to other countries prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. Severe illness can result to deaths especially in the elderly population and those with comorbidities. However, limited data are available on the clinical manifestations of COVID-19 in the pediatric age group. Initial studies indicate that children are as likely to be infected as adults. However, while they may present as asymptomatic or with mild illness, this has not been proven to lead to less transmission risk. Patients undergoing surgery is also a special population because surgery poses additional risks to the COVID-19 patient as well as to the healthcare team.

The aim of this document is to provide quick guidance in dealing with surgical patients in the pediatric age group. This is an adjunct to the more comprehensive guidelines set forth by Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS). The PSPS continues to monitor developments with regards to this evolving healthcare crisis and updates the recommendations as the need arises. This document is not intended to replace clinical and surgical judgment and protocols adjusted according to the situation of specific institutions.

Key words: appropriate care to children during COVID 19 Pandemic

DOI: https://doi.org/10.61662/PCS_eocb8970