Post COVID Syndrome in patients with COVID -19 : A Cross-Sectional study

ABSTRACT

Background: Long COVID is defined as the persistence of symptoms beyond 1 to 3 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. To better understand the long-term course and etiology of symptoms we analysed data of COVID-19 patients post discharge prospectively. Methods: A home care cell monitored COVID-19 patients post discharge. A paramedical staff interviewed the patient using the pretested questionnaire and refer the patient to doctor if required. The doctor spoke with these select cases and offered them treatment, counselling, referral to consultant/ hospital as per the need. Results: We followed up with 4354 (2724 employees and 1630 dependents) patients for 3 months. 592 (13%) patients were hospitalized for COVID and others were under home isolation. 4108 (94%) patients did not have any symptoms post COVID and 239 (6%) were known to have either one or more post COVID symptoms. For 153 (64%) patients symptoms lasted for more than a month post discharge and 86 (36%) patients were symptomatic for more than 2 months post discharge. The most common symptoms identified were fatigue and weakness (69%), dry cough (39%) body ache (31%), fever (23%) shortness of breath (15%) etc. Interpretation: Long COVID symptoms can persist for 1- 3months after recovery, this may lead to long absenteeism and may reduce productivity and quality of life significantly. Post COVID syndrome can also have an adverse effect on the mental health of an individual. Post COVID complications can be severe leading to hospitalization and disability. The continued assessment of patients with PCS is an important and effective step to reduce complications.