COVID-19 quarantine measures and its impact on pattern of life of school children

Abstract

Background: Although the physical effects of lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic have become largely known, the psychological effects are still unknown. Objective: to investigate physical and psychological impact of quarantine measures among school children in Egypt. Methodology: This study investigated the impact of lockdown measures on eating, sleeping, mood and behavior of school children using online survey. Results: Total participants were 1507, aged between 6 to 14 years, private schools’ students represented 60% of responders. 96.4% had changes in sleeping pattern, 77.8% had changes in eating pattern, 21.7% showed worries about general health condition, 70.5% had mood and behavioral changes especially aggressive behavior and finally, 37.3% had problems in concentration and focusing. Sociodemographic factors significantly affected sleeping of children during quarantine. Males were more affected considering bed time, 77.8 % of those returned to bed wetting were girls, the most affected age group was 8-10 years old, urban residents and the first ordered child were the most affected. Changes of eating pattern were more common among females, within the age group 8-10 years, first ordered child of families with sufficient monthly income. Those having one or both of his/her parents is a health care worker were significantly affected and had more worries about health. Finally, sex was the only factor affecting behavioral changes (male more than females). Conclusion: COVID-19 has a notable impact on eating, sleeping patterns as well as mood and behavior of the children.