COVID-19 Morbidity Among Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Disorder: A Matched Controlled Population-Based Study.

ABSTRACT

In this study we aimed to assess whether individuals with ASD are prone to higher infection rates, or to severe COVID-19 illness. Individuals with ASD and age- and gender-matched controlled counterparts (total n = 32,812) were assessed for COVID-19 infection rates and hospitalizations. Results indicated higher infection rates among individuals with ASD, with the largest effect among individuals aged 40-60 (OR = 2.05, 95%CI 1.33-3.15, p < .001), as well as higher odds for hospitalizations, evident primarily in men (OR = 2.40, 95%CI 1.14-5.02, p = 0.02) but not women. Medical and environmental risk factors may associate ASD with higher infection and morbidity rates. Healthcare policy providers should consider proactive steps to protect this population from the associated risks.