COVID-19 Pandemic Linked to Increased Firearm Injuries in Children

Strategic Insights -

A new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine reveals a disturbing trend: the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in firearm injuries among children. The research, published in the Journal of Pediatric Surgery, analyzed data from a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center and found that monthly firearm injury rates increased by 51.5% during the pandemic, with a significant increase in firearm assaults and homicides.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study compared 413 pre-pandemic firearm injuries to 259 pandemic firearm injuries, revealing a significant increase in monthly firearm injury rates.
  • The victims were mostly Black males with a mean age of 13.4 years, with a significant increase in Black victims and those with Medicaid or self-pay.
  • Firearm assault and homicide rates increased significantly, while unintentional shootings decreased.
  • Deaths increased by 29%, and there were fewer ED discharges and more admissions to OR and/or PICU.
  • The study highlighted a concerning trend of increased firearm injuries among children during the pandemic.

Statistics:

  • 413 pre-pandemic firearm injuries were compared to 259 pandemic firearm injuries.
  • Monthly firearm injury rates increased by 51.5% from 6.8 to 10.3 shootings/month.
  • Firearm assault and homicide rates increased by 29%.
  • Deaths increased by 29%.
  • There were significantly fewer ED discharges and more admissions to OR and/or PICU.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. University of Missouri School of Medicine Reports Findings in COVID-19 (COVID-19 Pandemic effects on the epidemiology and mortality of pediatric firearm injuries; A single center study). Pediatrics Week. December 10, 2022; p 28.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic effects on the epidemiology and mortality of pediatric firearm injuries; A single center study. (2022). Journal of Pediatric Surgery.