The unintended health effects of US COVID-19 lockdowns: a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

US lockdowns and school closures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic were intended to mitigate viral transmission and protect public health. However, the broader health effects of these interventions remain unclear.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed studies that assessed the impact of US lockdowns and school closures on health-related outcomes excluding COVID-19 transmission and mortality.

Results

A total of 132 studies met inclusion criteria, yielding 454 unique outcomes. Lockdowns and school closures were associated with detrimental health effects in the majority of outcomes analyzed, including over 90% of mental health, obesity-related, and health-related social need outcomes (child development/education, employment, access

SUBMITTER: Taylor HL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12612676 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature