Colossal Breed and Backlash of the 'Sesame Street': Brunt of COVID-19 Pandemic in the 'High-Tech' Era of Learning on Children and Adolescents and Suggestions.

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the closure of various academic institutions, leaving online learning the only option for continuity of education and curricular activities among children and adolescents. It is unclear whether the adoption of online learning will persist in the post-pandemic period. However, enhanced exposure to gadgets impacts the socio-emotive-adaptive development of young children. It sprouts various short-term as well as long-term deleterious physical and mental health effects among children and adolescents. Research has focused mainly on the epidemiology, risks modeling, pathophysiology, and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2, but the impact of increased exposure to gadgets and technology due to online learning activity and the "digital new-norm" has largely been unnoticed. The enforced/self-quarantine leading to less outdoor activities during this pandemic, may have a cumulative poor health consequence. Early detection and management of those at risk and signs and symptoms of these adverse health effects are important. Awareness regarding these ill-effects on this vulnerable group is relevant for parents, guardians, teachers, mentors, health-care providers, and policy-makers.