Many COVID survivors still experience symptoms two years after SARS-CoV-2 infection

Researchers at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Spain, reported that about half of Long COVID survivors were still experiencing symptoms two years after having been infected with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The research team followed up a total of 2,764 infected individuals several times over four years. To map their Long COVID symptoms, participants were invited to complete validated questionnaires. Moreover, electronic health records were evaluated. The study set out to gain new insights about potential risk factors, symptoms and courses of this condition. 

In addition, the researchers identified several factors that were associated with a higher risk of developing Long COVID. As per the study, this risk was higher for females, individuals aged under 50 years, of low socioeconomic status and with severe COVID-19 infection. Obesity and chronic respiratory illnesses such as asthma or COPD were also associated with a higher risk. By contrast, the risk of developing Long COVID was lower in persons with vaccination against COVID-19, higher levels of regular physical activity prior to the infection and who slept at least 6 to 8 hours a night. Infection with the Omicron variant was also linked to a lower risk of Long COVID. 

The results of this study highlight the fact that Long COVID continues to have major implications for society as a whole and the need for further research in this area.