Global Prevalence of Post-Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Condition or Long COVID: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

After screening approximately 4500 articles and meta-analyzing 41 included studies, global pooled post-COVID-19 condition prevalence is estimated to be 0.43 (95% CI, .39-.46), with those hospitalized experiencing a higher prevalence of 0.54 than those not hospitalized (0.34). Background This study aims to examine the worldwide prevalence of post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) condition, through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods PubMed, Embase, and iSearch were searched on July 5, 2021 with verification extending to March 13, 2022. Using a random-effects framework with DerSimonian-Laird estimator, we meta-analyzed post-COVID-19 condition prevalence at 28+ days from infection. Results Fifty studies were included, and 41 were meta-analyzed. Global estimated pooled prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition was 0.43 (95% confidence interval [CI], .39-.46). Hospitalized and nonhospitalized patients had estimates of 0.54 (95% CI, .44-.63) and 0.34 (95% CI, .25-.46), respectively. Regional prevalence estimates were Asia (0.51; 95% CI, .37-.65), Europe (0.44; 95% CI, .32-.56), and United States of America (0.31; 95% CI, .21-.43). Global prevalence for 30, 60, 90, and 120 days after infection were estimated to be 0.37 (95% CI, .26-.49), 0.25 (95% CI, .15-.38), 0.32 (95% CI, .14-.57), and 0.49 (95% CI, .40-.59), respectively. Fatigue was the most common symptom reported with a prevalence of 0.23 (95% CI, .17-.30), followed by memory problems (0.14; 95% CI, .10-.19). Conclusions This study finds post-COVID-19 condition prevalence is substantial; the health effects of COVID-19 seem to be prolonged and can exert stress on the healthcare system.

Automated summary

This study reveals a substantial prevalence of post-COVID-19 condition worldwide. Hospitalized patients have a higher prevalence compared to non-hospitalized ones. Fatigue is the most commonly reported symptom.