DESEMPENHO MOTOR PELA ESCALA MOTORA INFANTIL DE ALBERTA EM LACTENTES EXPOSTOS À COVID-19

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: There are reports that the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, can reach the central and peripheral nervous system, with the possibility of resulting in numerous deficiencies. To date, no studies have been found that have evaluated potential repercussions on the gross motor performance of infants who have had COVID-19. Objective: To characterize the motor performance of infants aged 0 to 18 months exposed to SARS-CoV-2. Methodology: The study is characterized as observational, longitudinal, and prospective. Twenty participants were included, from January to December 2022, who confirmed a diagnosis of COVID-19 through the result of the serological test or maternal infection during pregnancy. The study was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of UFMS. Recruitment was carried out through social networks (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp). As an assessment tool, we used the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS), translated, validated and adapted for Brazil, applied in person to residents of Campo Grande - MS or remotely to other states in Brazil. The collection of information about the clinical and motor findings of infants during and after COVID-19 infection was performed through an online clinical and motor information form completed through the Google Forms platform by parents/legal guardians. Results: The group was homogeneous in relation to general characteristics such as sex and gestational age. The AIMS scores were within the normative values ​​expected for each motor milestone at each age. Conclusion: It is suggested that exposure to SARS-Cov-2 did not affect the gross motor development of affected infants.

Keywords: Infants; Child development; COVID-19