Dataset from COV-IDD: Testing for COVID-19 in High Risk Children With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Background: The purpose of this study was to establish and evaluate comprehensive COVID-19 testing and mitigation strategies in a specialized school serving children with moderate to severe intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), a population at particularly high risk for disease transmission. The study aimed to identify infections rapidly, assess immunity levels, optimize testing protocols through modeling, expand access via mobile testing, and address vaccine hesitancy through education and outreach.

Materials/Methods: This study established an FDA-approved nasal swab testing regimen to monitor and detect outbreaks, allowing for early identification, isolation, and contact tracing to prevent transmission. Serological testing was used to measure baseline immunity levels resulting from infection or vaccination among students and staff. Participants who tested antibody-positive were followed longitudinally to evaluate the rate of decline in IgG and neutralizing antibody levels, with particular focus on whether immunity in children with IDD waned faster than in the general population. To optimize testing strategies, network and agent-based simulation models were used to assess school operations, personnel interactions, potential infection risks, variant dynamics, and the impact of control measures such as quarantine, isolation, and vaccination rates. The study also developed and deployed a disability-accessible mobile testing unit to provide rapid and flexible on-site testing. To address testing and vaccine hesitancy, focus groups were conducted to identify community concerns, myths, and misconceptions about vaccination. The impact of this program was evaluated using the PROMIS-29 electronic patient-reported outcome scale, administered longitudinally to staff, parents or guardians, and children (via proxy) to assess changes in anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance, and social functioning.

Outcome/Impact: This study successfully implemented a scalable, multifaceted approach that improved COVID-19 surveillance and prevention in a high-risk school environment. The integration of virological and serological testing with modeling and mobile delivery systems enhanced early detection and containment of infections. Educational interventions effectively addressed vaccine hesitancy, improving confidence and uptake among staff and families. The use of PROMIS-29 provided comprehensive insights into the psychological and social impact of these interventions, establishing a framework adaptable to other institutions.