For many, the social isolation, financial uncertainty and strain on support services caused by the pandemic has made losing loved ones even less bearable.

Research in the journal JAMA Pediatrics estimates that, as of February 2021, 37,300-43,000 children had lost a parent due to COVID-19, with more to come as the pandemic continues.

Black children were disproportionately affected, accounting for 14% of children in the U.S. but 20% of parental losses.

Such losses are linked to greater risks of traumatic grief, depression, poor educational outcomes, and unintentional death or suicide, sometimes well into adulthood.

The authors say the demographic simulation, which did not include non-parent caregivers, underlines the need for national reforms to address the related health, education and economic effects.