The increase in child abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic: unmasking its hidden impact
摘要
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all areas of healthcare, raising concerns about delayed and inadequate care for non-COVID-19 conditions. Although previous reports found fewer hospital admissions due to child abuse during the pandemic, they found more pediatric cases with severe injuries, especially traumatic brain injuries, suggesting potential underreporting of child abuse cases. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated a constellation of risk factors predisposing both parents and children to an increased risk of child abuse. Applying proactive interventions and reinforcing reporting systems is vital to ensure that children are protected during times of crisis.