Ongoing post-COVID-19 symptoms and complaints among healthcare professionals

Abstract

Introduction: Post-COVID-19 syndrome refers to the occurrence of symptoms lasting more than 4 weeks in individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. This study aims to investigate the post-COVID-19 symptoms in healthcare professionals.

Methodology: This descriptive study included 166 healthcare professionals who had tested positive for COVID-19 via PCR at least four weeks prior and subsequently presented to the Family Medicine Clinic at Pamukkale University Training and Research Hospital. Participants` demographic data, medical history, COVID-19 history and ongoing or newly emerged complaints and symptoms were evaluated, and physical examinations were carried out and recorded on a patient information form. Blood tests were conducted, and the results were analyzed.

Results: The most common post-COVID-19 symptoms and complaints observed in our study were difficulty in performing daily activities (32.5%; n = 54), fatigue (26.5%; n = 44), forgetfulness (25.9%; n = 43) and weakness (24.1%; n = 40), respectively. Smoking, alcohol use, hospitalization, the need for oxygen support and having comorbidities such as asthma, diabetes, hypertension and rheumatism were found to be associated with various post-acute symptoms. Post-acute symptoms were most frequently observed in individuals vaccinated with Sinovac (38.5%), followed by those who were unvaccinated (35.7%). Least symptoms were seen in individuals vaccinated with only Biontech (15.4%).

Conclusions: The most common post-COVID-19 symptoms observed in our study were difficulty in performing daily activities, fatigue, forgetfulness and weakness. Having comorbidities was found to be associated with various post-COVID-19 symptoms.