School closures during the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak

Abstract

School closures during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic have been outlined in studies from different disciplines, including economics, sociology, mathematical modeling, epidemiology, and public health. In this review, we discuss the implications of school closures in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Modeling studies of the effects of school closures, largely derived from the pandemic influenza model, on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 produced conflicting results. Earlier studies assessed the risk of school reopening by modeling transmission across schools and communities; however, it remains unclear whether the risk is due to increased transmission in adults or children. The empirical findings of the impact of school closures on COVID-19 outbreaks suggest no clear effect, likely because of heterogeneity in community infection pressure, differences in school closure strategies, or the use of multiple interventions. The benefits of school closings are unclear and not readily quantifiable; however, they must be weighed against the potential high social costs, which can also negatively affect the health of this generation.

The Relationship Between Fast Food Consumption and Daily Lifestyle Changes During School Closures Following the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Adolescents in Korea

“…Although a stepwise reopening of schools in South Korea did not result in a surge in pediatric cases, school closures were shown to have significant noninfectious health outcomes. 2 The school closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic have led to changes in lifestyle habits that may hinder children' s healthy development. 3 Research has reported increased sedentary behavior, decreased peer interactions, and increased dysfunctional eating behaviors (or nutritional status and eating habits).…”

“…During the closures, classes moved online, and students’ lifestyles were left up to each family to manage. Although a stepwise reopening of schools in South Korea did not result in a surge in pediatric cases, school closures were shown to have significant noninfectious health outcomes [ 2 ]. The school closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic have led to changes in lifestyle habits that may hinder children’s healthy development [ 3 ].…”