Global minimum estimates of children affected by COVID-19-associated orphanhood and deaths of caregivers: a modelling study

The COVID-19 pandemic priorities have focused on prevention, detection, and response. Beyond morbidity and mortality, pandemics carry secondary impacts, such as children orphaned or bereft of their caregivers. Such children often face adverse consequences, including poverty, abuse, and institutionalisation. This study provide estimates for the magnitude of this problem resulting from COVID-19 and describe the need for resource allocation. Globally, from March 1, 2020, to April 30, 2021, the study estimates 1,134,000 children experienced the death of primary caregivers, including at least one parent or custodial grandparent.