Pediatric infection with the Omicron variant increases the risks of febrile seizures among COVID-19 infected children.

Background: The Omicron variant of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is less likely to cause severe disease in children than the other variants but has become an increasing cause of febrile seizures (FS) among children. In this case-control study, we aimed to examine the risk factors associated with FS in children infected with the COVID-19 Omicron variant and related treatment modalities. Methods: This retrospective case-control study includes 113 subjects infected with the COVID-19 Omicron variant, grouped into 45 cases (those with FS) and 68 controls (those without FS). Data on clinical features, laboratory parameters, and treatment modalities were collected and analyzed. Results: Approximately 5.74% of COVID-19 infected children developed COVID-19-associated FS. Children with COVID-19 and high body temperatures [RR 1.474; (95% CI: 1.196-1.818), Conclusion: A significant increase in FS was observed in children with Omicron SARS-CoV-2 infection. A higher body temperature, a history of FS, a higher procalcitonin level, and a high neutrophil count were all associated with an increased risk of FS in children with COVID-19. The risk of developing FS was lower in children with COVID-19 and low eosinophil counts and hemoglobin levels than in those without.