Long COVID and its associated factors among COVID survivors in the community from a middle-income country-An online cross-sectional study

Patients with COVID-19 usually recover and return to normal health, however some patients may have symptoms that last for weeks or even months after recovery. This persistent state of ill health is known as Long COVID if it continues for more than three months and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis. Long Covid has been overlooked, especially in the low- and middle-income countries. Therefore, we conducted an online survey among the COVID-19 survivors in the community to explore their Long COVID symptoms, factors associated with Long COVID and how Long COVID affected their work. A total of 732 COVID-19 survivors responded, with 56% were without or with mild symptoms during their acute COVID-19 conditions. One in five COVID-19 survivors reported of experiencing Long COVID. The most commonly reported symptoms were fatigue, brain fog, depression, anxiety and insomnia. Females had 58% higher odds (95% CI: 1.02, 2.45) of experiencing Long COVID. Patients with moderate and severe levels of acute COVID-19 symptoms had OR of 3.01 (95% CI: 1.21, 7.47) and 3.62 (95% CI: 1.31, 10.03) respectively for Long COVID. Recognition of Long COVID and its associated factors is important in planning prevention, rehabilitation, clinical management to improve recovery from COVID-19.

Automated summary

Patients with COVID-19 may experience symptoms that last for weeks or even months after recovery, known as Long COVID. It is often overlooked, especially in low- and middle-income countries. An online survey was conducted among COVID-19 survivors to explore their Long COVID symptoms, associated factors, and impact on work. One in five survivors reported experiencing Long COVID, with fatigue, brain fog, depression, anxiety, and insomnia being the most common symptoms. Females and patients with moderate to severe acute symptoms were more likely to experience Long COVID.