Obesity is a chronic disease that poses increased risk for severe COVID-19, and it is likely to increase during and after the pandemic. It is critical that health care providers recognize that patients with obesity are at increased risk for severe manifestations of COVID-19. The guidance is specific to children and adolescents with obesity.

• Interim Guidance: Obesity Management and Treatment During COVID-19
• News Release: American Academy of Pediatrics Raises Concern about Children’s Nutrition and Physical Activity During Pandemic
• AAP News article: AAP interim guidance addresses healthy lifestyles, obesity management during pandemic
• HealthyChildren.org Article: Body-Mass Index Formula (BMI) in Children

Assessing and counseling on maintenance of healthy nutrition, sufficient sleep, physical activity, and minimizing sedentary time are all key components of care during the pandemic. The guidance is focused on population-based recommendations for supporting healthy nutrition and physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Interim Guidance: Supporting Healthy Nutrition and Physical Activity During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• AAP News Parent Plus article: Keeping kids active, eating healthy hard for parents during pandemic
• HealthyChildren.org Article: Family Fitness Checker Tool: Are Your Children Getting Enough Physical Activity?