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Delfino C, Poli MC, Vial C, Vial PA, Martínez G, Riviotta A, Arbat C, Mac-Guire N, Hoppe J, Carvajal C, Muñoz Venturelli P. Post-COVID-19 condition: a sex-based analysis of clinical and laboratory trends. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1376030. [PMID: 38919940 PMCID: PMC11198115 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1376030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) encompasses long-lasting symptoms in individuals with COVID-19 and is estimated to affect between 31-67% of patients, with women being more commonly affected. No definitive biomarkers have emerged in the acute stage that can help predict the onset of PCC, therefore we aimed at describing sex-disaggregated data of PCC patients from a local cohort and explore potential acute predictors of PCC and neurologic PCC. Methods A local cohort of consecutive patients admitted with COVID-19 diagnosis between June 2020 and July 2021 were registered, and clinical and laboratory data were recorded. Only those <65 years, discharged alive and followed up at 6 and 12 months after admission were considered in these analyses. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to explore variables associated with PCC (STATA v 18.0). Results From 130 patients in the cohort, 104 were contacted: 30% were women, median age of 42 years. At 6 months, 71 (68%) reported PCC symptoms. Women exhibited a higher prevalence of any PCC symptom (87 vs. 60%, p = 0.007), lower ferritin (p = 0.001) and procalcitonin (p = 0.021) and higher TNF levels (p = 0.042) in the acute phase compared to men. Being women was independently associated to 7.60 (95% CI 1.27-45.18, p = 0.026) higher risk for PCC. Moreover, women had lower return to normal activities 6 and 12 months. Conclusion Our findings highlight the lasting impact of COVID-19, particularly in young women, emphasising the need for tailored post-COVID care. The lower ferritin levels in women are an intriguing observation, warranting further research. The study argues for comprehensive strategies that address sex-specific challenges in recovery from COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Delfino
- Centro de Estudios Clínicos, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina (ICIM), Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - M. Cecilia Poli
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Inmunogenética e Inmunología Traslacional, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Santiago, Chile
- Unidad de Inmunología y Reumatología, Hospital Roberto del Río, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cecilia Vial
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Hantavirus y Zoonosis, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo A. Vial
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Hantavirus y Zoonosis, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Martínez
- Departamento de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Amy Riviotta
- Centro de Estudios Clínicos, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina (ICIM), Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Catalina Arbat
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Nicole Mac-Guire
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Josefina Hoppe
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristóbal Carvajal
- Centro de Informática Biomédica, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina (ICIM), Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana—Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paula Muñoz Venturelli
- Centro de Estudios Clínicos, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina (ICIM), Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
- Servicio de Neurología, Departamento de Neurología y Psiquiatría, Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana—Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
- The George Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Saade A, Didier Q, Cha L, Garlantezec R, Paris C, Tattevin P. The prevalence, determinants, and consequences of post-COVID in healthcare workers: A cross-sectional survey. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29725. [PMID: 38828936 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Data on post-coronavirus disease (COVID) in healthcare workers (HCWs) are scarce. We aimed to assess prevalence, determinants, and consequences of post-COVID in HCWs. In fall 2022, we performed a cross-sectional survey in a tertiary care hospital with a web-based questionnaire sent to HCWs. Post-COVID was defined as persistent/new symptoms 3 months after acute COVID. Propensity score weighting was performed to assess the impact of post-COVID on return-to-work. 1062 HCWs completed the questionnaire, 713 (68%) reported at least one COVID, and 109 (10%) met the definition for post-COVID, with workplace contamination reported in 51 (47%). On multivariable analysis, risk factors for post-COVID were female gender (p = 0.047), ≥50 years (p = 0.007), immunosuppression (p = 0.004), ≥2 COVID episodes (p = 0.003), and ≥5 symptoms during acute COVID (p = 0.005). Initial sick leave was prescribed for 94 HCWs (86% post-COVID), for a median duration of 7 [7-9] days, and extended for 23. On return-to-work, 91 (84%) had residual symptoms, primarily asthenia/fatigue (72%) and cognitive impairment (25%). Cognitive impairment at return-to-work was associated with post-COVID. Ten HCWs (9%) received a medical diagnosis of post-COVID, 8 consulted the occupational physician, and four required work adaptation. Post-COVID affected 10% of HCWs. Long-term consequences included repeated sick leaves and residual symptoms on return-to-work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Saade
- Occupational Diseases, CHU de Rennes, Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
- Infectious diseases and intensive care unit, CHU de Rennes, Université de Rennes, Inserm U1230, Rennes, France
| | - Quentin Didier
- Occupational Diseases, CHU de Rennes, Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Léo Cha
- Occupational Diseases, CHU de Rennes, Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Ronan Garlantezec
- Public Health, CHU de Rennes, Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Christophe Paris
- Occupational Diseases, CHU de Rennes, Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Pierre Tattevin
- Infectious diseases and intensive care unit, CHU de Rennes, Université de Rennes, Inserm U1230, Rennes, France
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Ruiyin W, Qi J, Tingting W, Yuqin Y, Yan J, Kun P. Long COVID outcomes following omicron wave in non-hospital population. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1377866. [PMID: 38560433 PMCID: PMC10978792 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1377866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The persistence of symptoms or the development of new symptoms following a diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 has given rise to a multifaceted clinical condition referred to as "long COVID" (LC). The understanding of LC among China's non-hospitalized population continues to be insufficient. This investigation was designed to evaluate the protracted consequences amongst this demographic, as well as to identify the associated risk factors. Methods This research constitutes a prospective cohort study focusing on non-hospitalized individuals, aged between 18 and 59, who have been positively diagnosed with COVID-19. Each participant was subjected to a sequence of questionnaire-based surveys, designed to evaluate symptoms as well as the status of depression and anxiety. A logistic regression model, adjusted for multiple variables, was employed to scrutinize the correlation between demographic elements, lifestyle attributes, and health-related risk factors in relation to conditions and symptoms post COVID-19 infection. Results A total of 706 individuals participated in the 3 months follow-up, with 620 continuing on to the 6 months follow-up. The median age was 35 (28, 43) years, and 597 (85%) are female. Upon follow-up, Compared with patients without LC, patients with LC have a higher proportion of females (420 (87%) vs. 177 (79%); p = 0.010), were older (35 (29, 44) years vs. 33 (27, 41) years; p = 0.010) and have more comorbidities. Out of all participants, 483 (68.4%) reported experiencing at least one symptom at the 3 months mark, while 49.7% reported symptoms persisting at the 6 months mark. At the 3 months follow-up, the most prevalent persistent symptoms were cough (46%), fatigue (38%), and shortness of breath (34%). By the 6 months follow-up, fatigue (25%), shortness of breath (22%), and sleep disorders (16%) were the most commonly reported symptoms. Anxiety and depression were consistently reported as prevalent symptoms throughout the follow-up period. Most patient symptoms fade over time, with the quickest decreases observed in cough (from 46 to 9%), expectoration (from 26 to 6.3%), smell disorder (from 16 to 3.9%), and taste disorder (from 18 to 3.5%). Male and those possessing advanced educational qualifications exhibit a decreased susceptibility to the sustained incidence of coughing. Conversely, older age and the presence of comorbidities were identified as risk factors for persistent fatigue and shortness of breath. Conclusion In the after of COVID-19, it has been observed that the majority of patient symptoms tend to decrease over time. The primary residual symptoms noticed after a 6 month follow-up were fatigue, dyspnea, and sleep disturbances. However, it's noteworthy that the risk factors associated with these symptoms exhibit subtle variations. Furthermore, psychological sequelae, namely depression and anxiety, are frequently reported among COVID-19 survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Ruiyin
- Department of Respiratory, Beijing Longfu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Qi
- Department of Respiratory, Beijing Longfu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wang Tingting
- Department of Respiratory, Beijing Longfu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Yuqin
- Department of Respiratory, Beijing Longfu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Yan
- Department of Respiratory, Beijing Longfu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Kun
- Department of Office of the Hospital, Beijing Longfu Hospital, Beijing, China
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Braig S, Peter RS, Nieters A, Kräusslich HG, Brockmann SO, Göpel S, Kindle G, Merle U, Steinacker JM, Kern WV, Rothenbacher D. Post-COVID syndrome and work ability 9-12 months after a SARS-CoV-2 infection among over 9000 employees from the general population. IJID REGIONS 2024; 10:67-74. [PMID: 38532741 PMCID: PMC10964065 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2023.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Objectives Evidence on the work-related societal impact of long-term health-related consequences following SARS-CoV-2 is emerging. We characterize the modified work ability index (mWAI) of employees 6 to 12 months after an acute infection compared to pre-infection. Methods Analyses were based on a population-based, multi-center cross-sectional study including employees aged 18-65 years with positive SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (tested between October 2020-April 2021 in defined geographic regions in Germany). Prevalences and results of adjusted logistic regression analyses were given. Results In 9752 employees (mean age 45.6 years, 58% females, response 24%), n = 1217 (13.1%) participants were regarded as having low mWAI compared to pre-infection. Outpatient medical treatment, inpatient treatment, and admission to intensive care during infection were associated with mWAI <15th percentile (P15, each odds ratio [OR] >3.0). Post-COVID symptom clusters most strongly linked to mWAI Conclusion Our findings revealed risk factors of mWAI
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Braig
- Institute of Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Raphael S. Peter
- Institute of Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Alexandra Nieters
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Medical Centre and Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Georg Kräusslich
- Institute of Virology, Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan O. Brockmann
- Department of Health Protection, Infection Control and Epidemiology, Baden-Wuerttemberg Federal State Health Office, Ministry of Social Affairs, Health and Integration Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Siri Göpel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Kindle
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Medical Centre and Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Uta Merle
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen M. Steinacker
- Division of Sports and Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Medicine, Ulm University Hospital, Ulm, Germany
| | - Winfried V. Kern
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine II, Medical Centre and Faculty of Medicine, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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Gehanno JF, Thaon I, Pelissier C, Rollin L. Assessment of search strategies in Medline to identify studies on the impact of long COVID on workability. Front Res Metr Anal 2024; 9:1300533. [PMID: 38495828 PMCID: PMC10940504 DOI: 10.3389/frma.2024.1300533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Studies on the impact of long COVID on work capacity are increasing but are difficult to locate in bibliographic databases, due to the heterogeneity of the terms used to describe this new condition and its consequences. This study aims to report on the effectiveness of different search strategies to find studies on the impact of long COVID on work participation in PubMed and to create validated search strings. Methods We searched PubMed for articles published on Long COVID and including information about work. Relevant articles were identified and their reference lists were screened. Occupational health journals were manually scanned to identify articles that could have been missed. A total of 885 articles potentially relevant were collected and 120 were finally included in a gold standard database. Recall, Precision, and Number Needed to Read (NNR) of various keywords or combinations of keywords were assessed. Results Overall, 123 search-words alone or in combination were tested. The highest Recalls with a single MeSH term or textword were 23 and 90%, respectively. Two different search strings were developed, one optimizing Recall while keeping Precision acceptable (Recall 98.3%, Precision 15.9%, NNR 6.3) and one optimizing Precision while keeping Recall acceptable (Recall 90.8%, Precision 26.1%, NNR 3.8). Conclusions No single MeSH term allows to find all relevant studies on the impact of long COVID on work ability in PubMed. The use of various MeSH and non-MeSH terms in combination is required to recover such studies without being overwhelmed by irrelevant articles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-François Gehanno
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
- Inserm, Rouen University, Sorbonne University, University of Paris 13, Laboratory of Medical Informatics and Knowledge Engineering in e-Health, LIMICS, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Thaon
- Centre de Consultations de Pathologie Professionnelle, CHRU de Nancy, Vandoeuvre les Nancy, Nancy, France
| | - Carole Pelissier
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint-Etienne, Université Lyon 1, Université de St Etienne, Université Gustave Eiffel-IFSTTAR, Saint-Etienne, France
- UMRESTTE UMR-T9405, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Laetitia Rollin
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
- Inserm, Rouen University, Sorbonne University, University of Paris 13, Laboratory of Medical Informatics and Knowledge Engineering in e-Health, LIMICS, Paris, France
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Kwon J, Milne R, Rayner C, Rocha Lawrence R, Mullard J, Mir G, Delaney B, Sivan M, Petrou S. Impact of Long COVID on productivity and informal caregiving. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2023:10.1007/s10198-023-01653-z. [PMID: 38146040 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-023-01653-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Around 2 million people in the UK suffer from Long COVID (LC). Of concern is the disease impact on productivity and informal care burden. This study aimed to quantify and value productivity losses and informal care receipt in a sample of LC patients in the UK. METHODS The target population comprised LC patients referred to LC specialist clinics. The questionnaires included a health economics questionnaire (HEQ) measuring productivity impacts, informal care receipt and service utilisation, EQ-5D-5L, C19-YRS LC condition-specific measure, and sociodemographic and COVID-19 history variables. Outcomes were changes from the incident infection resulting in LC to the month preceding the survey in paid work status/h, work income, work performance and informal care receipt. The human capital approach valued productivity losses; the proxy goods method valued caregiving hours. The values were extrapolated nationally using published prevalence data. Multilevel regressions, nested by region, estimated associations between the outcomes and patient characteristics. RESULTS 366 patients responded to HEQ (mean LC duration 449.9 days). 51.7% reduced paid work hours relative to the pre-infection period. Mean monthly work income declined by 24.5%. The average aggregate value of productivity loss since incident infection was £10,929 (95% bootstrap confidence interval £8,844-£13,014) and £5.7 billion (£3.8-£7.6 billion) extrapolated nationally. The corresponding values for informal caregiving were £8,726 (£6,247-£11,204) and £4.8 billion (£2.6-£7.0 billion). Multivariate analyses found significant associations between each outcome and health utility and C19-YRS subscale scores. CONCLUSION LC significantly impacts productivity losses and provision of informal care, exacerbated by high national prevalence of LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kwon
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, England.
| | - Ruairidh Milne
- Public Health, Wessex Institute, University of Southampton, Southampton, England
| | - Clare Rayner
- Locomotion Patient Advisory Group (Co-Lead), University of Leeds, Leeds, England
| | | | - Jordan Mullard
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, England
- Department of Sociology, University of Durham, Durham, England
| | - Ghazala Mir
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, England
| | - Brendan Delaney
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, England
| | - Manoj Sivan
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, England
| | - Stavros Petrou
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, England
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Fernández-de-las-Peñas C, Raveendran AV, Giordano R, Arendt-Nielsen L. Long COVID or Post-COVID-19 Condition: Past, Present and Future Research Directions. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2959. [PMID: 38138102 PMCID: PMC10745830 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of symptoms after an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection (long-COVID) has become a worldwide healthcare emergency but remains underestimated and undertreated due to a lack of recognition of the condition and knowledge of the underlying mechanisms. In fact, the prevalence of post-COVID symptoms ranges from 50% during the first months after the infection up to 20% two-years after. This perspective review aimed to map the existing literature on post-COVID symptoms and to identify gaps in the literature to guide the global effort toward an improved understanding of long-COVID and suggest future research directions. There is a plethora of symptomatology that can be due to COVID-19; however, today, there is no clear classification and definition of this condition, termed long-COVID or post-COVID-19 condition. The heterogeneity in the symptomatology has led to the presence of groups/clusters of patients, which could exhibit different risk factors and different mechanisms. Viral persistence, long-lasting inflammation, immune dysregulation, autoimmune reactions, reactivation of latent infections, endothelial dysfunction and alteration in gut microbiota have been proposed as potential mechanisms explaining the complexity of long-COVID. In such an equation, viral biology (e.g., re-infections, SARS-CoV-2 variants), host biology (e.g., genetics, epigenetics) and external factors (e.g., vaccination) should be also considered. These various factors will be discussed in the current perspective review and future directions suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- César Fernández-de-las-Peñas
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28922 Madrid, Spain
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction (SMI), Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark; (R.G.); (L.A.-N.)
| | | | - Rocco Giordano
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction (SMI), Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark; (R.G.); (L.A.-N.)
| | - Lars Arendt-Nielsen
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction (SMI), Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark; (R.G.); (L.A.-N.)
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Mech-Sense, Aalborg University Hospital, DK-9000 Aalborg, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center North Denmark, Clinical Institute, Aalborg University Hospital, DK-9000 Aalborg, Denmark
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Cegolon L, Mauro M, Sansone D, Tassinari A, Gobba FM, Modenese A, Casolari L, Liviero F, Pavanello S, Scapellato ML, Taus F, Carta A, Spiteri G, Monaco MGL, Porru S, Larese Filon F. A Multi-Center Study Investigating Long COVID-19 in Healthcare Workers from North-Eastern Italy: Prevalence, Risk Factors and the Impact of Pre-Existing Humoral Immunity-ORCHESTRA Project. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1769. [PMID: 38140174 PMCID: PMC10747427 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The impact of long-COVID-19 syndrome is rather variable, since it is influenced by several residual confounders. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of long COVID-19 in healthcare workers (HCWs) from four university hospitals in north-eastern Italy: Trieste, Padua, Verona, and Modena-Reggio Emilia. Methods: During the period June 2022-August 2022, HCWs were surveyed for past COVID-19 infections, medical history, and any acute as well as post-COVID-19 symptoms. The prevalence of long COVID-19 was estimated at 30-60 days or 61+ days since first negative swab following first and second COVID-19 episode. Furthermore, the risk of long COVID-19 was investigated by multivariable logistic regression. Results were expressed as the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Results: 5432 HCWs returned a usable questionnaire: 2401 were infected with SARS-CoV-2 at least once, 230 were infected at least twice, and 8 were infected three times. The prevalence of long COVID-19 after a primary COVID-19 infection was 24.0% at 30-60 days versus 16.3% at 61+ days, and 10.5% against 5.5% after the second SARS-CoV-2 event. The most frequent symptoms after a first COVID-19 event were asthenia (30.3%), followed by myalgia (13.7%), cough (12.4%), dyspnea (10.2%), concentration deficit (8.1%), headache (7.3%), and anosmia (6.5%), in decreasing order of prevalence. The risk of long COVID-19 at 30-60 days was significantly higher in HCWs hospitalized for COVID-19 (aOR = 3.34; 95%CI: 1.62; 6.89), those infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the early pandemic waves-namely the Wuhan (aOR = 2.16; 95%CI: 1.14; 4.09) or Alpha (aOR= 2.05; 95%CI: 1.25; 3.38) transmission periods-and progressively increasing with viral shedding time (VST), especially 15+ days (aOR = 3.20; 95%CI: 2.07; 4.94). Further determinants of long COVID-19 at 30-60 days since primary COVID-19 event were female sex (aOR = 1.91; 95%CI: 1.30; 2.80), age >40 years, abnormal BMI, or administrative services (reference category). In contrast, HCWs vaccinated with two doses before their primary infection (aOR = 0.57; 95%CI: 0.34; 0.94), undergraduate students, or postgraduate medical trainees were less likely to experience long COVID-19 at 30-60 days. Apart from pandemic waves, the main determinants of long COVID-19 at 30-60 days were confirmed at 61+ days. Conclusions: The risk of long COVID-19 following primary infection increased with the severity of acute disease and VST, especially during the initial pandemic waves, when more virulent viral strains were circulating, and susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 was higher since most HCWs had not been infected yet, COVID-19 vaccines were still not available, and/or vaccination coverage was still building up. The risk of long COVID-19 therefore decreased inversely with humoral immunity at the individual level. Nevertheless, the prevalence of long COVID-19 was remarkably lower after SARS-CoV-2 reinfections regardless of vaccination status, suggesting that hybrid humoral immunity did not increase protection against the syndrome compared to immunity mounted by either natural infection or vaccination separately. Since the risk of long COVID-19 is currently low with Omicron and patients who developed the syndrome following SARS-CoV-2 infection in the early pandemic waves tend to return to a state of full health with time, a cost-effective approach to screen post-COVID-19 symptoms during the Omicron time could be restricted to vulnerable individuals developing severe disease and/or with prolonged VST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cegolon
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34129 Trieste, Italy; (M.M.); (D.S.); (A.T.); (F.L.F.)
- Occupational Medicine Unit, University Health Agency Giuliano-Isontina (ASUGI), 34129 Trieste, Italy
| | - Marcella Mauro
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34129 Trieste, Italy; (M.M.); (D.S.); (A.T.); (F.L.F.)
- Occupational Medicine Unit, University Health Agency Giuliano-Isontina (ASUGI), 34129 Trieste, Italy
| | - Donatella Sansone
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34129 Trieste, Italy; (M.M.); (D.S.); (A.T.); (F.L.F.)
| | - Alice Tassinari
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34129 Trieste, Italy; (M.M.); (D.S.); (A.T.); (F.L.F.)
| | - Fabrizio Maria Gobba
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neurological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio-Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.M.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Alberto Modenese
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neurological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio-Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (F.M.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Loretta Casolari
- Health Surveillance Service, Modena University Hospital, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Filippo Liviero
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Padua University Hospital, 35128 Padua, Italy; (F.L.); (S.P.)
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Sofia Pavanello
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Padua University Hospital, 35128 Padua, Italy; (F.L.); (S.P.)
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Scapellato
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Padua University Hospital, 35128 Padua, Italy; (F.L.); (S.P.)
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Francesco Taus
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Medical Statistics, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Angela Carta
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.C.); (G.S.); (M.G.L.M.); (S.P.)
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Gianluca Spiteri
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.C.); (G.S.); (M.G.L.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Maria Grazia Lourdes Monaco
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.C.); (G.S.); (M.G.L.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Stefano Porru
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Verona University Hospital, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.C.); (G.S.); (M.G.L.M.); (S.P.)
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Larese Filon
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34129 Trieste, Italy; (M.M.); (D.S.); (A.T.); (F.L.F.)
- Occupational Medicine Unit, University Health Agency Giuliano-Isontina (ASUGI), 34129 Trieste, Italy
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9
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Mohan A, Iyer VA, Kumar D, Batra L, Dahiya P. Navigating the Post-COVID-19 Immunological Era: Understanding Long COVID-19 and Immune Response. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2121. [PMID: 38004261 PMCID: PMC10672162 DOI: 10.3390/life13112121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the world unprecedentedly, with both positive and negative impacts. COVID-19 significantly impacted the immune system, and understanding the immunological consequences of COVID-19 is essential for developing effective treatment strategies. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively explore and provide insights into the immunological aspects of long COVID-19, a phenomenon where individuals continue to experience a range of symptoms and complications, even after the acute phase of COVID-19 infection has subsided. The immune system responds to the initial infection by producing various immune cells and molecules, including antibodies, T cells, and cytokines. However, in some patients, this immune response becomes dysregulated, leading to chronic inflammation and persistent symptoms. Long COVID-19 encompasses diverse persistent symptoms affecting multiple organ systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and gastrointestinal systems. In the post-COVID-19 immunological era, long COVID-19 and its impact on immune response have become a significant concern. Post-COVID-19 immune pathology, including autoimmunity and immune-mediated disorders, has also been reported in some patients. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of long COVID-19, its relationship to immunological responses, and the impact of post-COVID-19 immune pathology on patient outcomes. Additionally, the review addresses the current and potential treatments for long COVID-19, including immunomodulatory therapies, rehabilitation programs, and mental health support, all of which aim to improve the quality of life for individuals with long COVID-19. Understanding the complex interplay between the immune system and long COVID-19 is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies and providing optimal care in the post-COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Mohan
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida Sector-125, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.M.); (V.A.I.)
| | - Venkatesh Anand Iyer
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida Sector-125, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.M.); (V.A.I.)
| | - Dharmender Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science &Technology, Murthal, Sonipat 131309, Haryana, India;
| | - Lalit Batra
- Regional Biocontainment Laboratory, Center for Predictive Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40222, USA
| | - Praveen Dahiya
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida Sector-125, Noida 201313, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.M.); (V.A.I.)
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10
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Kerksieck P, Ballouz T, Haile SR, Schumacher C, Lacy J, Domenghino A, Fehr JS, Bauer GF, Dressel H, Puhan MA, Menges D. Post COVID-19 condition, work ability and occupational changes in a population-based cohort. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. EUROPE 2023:100671. [PMID: 37366496 PMCID: PMC10287546 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2023.100671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Background Evidence on the impact of post COVID-19 condition (PCC) on work ability is limited but critical due to its high prevalence among working-age individuals. This study aimed to evaluate the association between PCC, work ability, and occupational changes in a population-based cohort. Methods We used data from working-age adults included in a prospective, longitudinal cohort of a random sample of all individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 between August 2020 and January 2021 in the Canton of Zurich, Switzerland. We evaluated current work ability, work ability related to physical and mental demands, and estimated future work ability in 2 years (assessed using Work Ability Index), and PCC-related occupational changes one year after infection. Findings Of 672 individuals included in this study, 120 (17.9%) were categorised as having PCC (defined as presence of self-reported COVID-19 related symptoms) at 12 months. There was very strong evidence that current work ability scores were mean 0.62 (95% CI 0.30-0.95) points lower among those with PCC compared to those without in adjusted regression analyses. Similarly, there was very strong evidence for lower odds of reporting higher work ability with respect to physical (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.30, 95% CI 0.20-0.46) and mental (aOR 0.40, 0.27-0.62) demands in individuals with PCC. Higher age and history of psychiatric diagnosis were associated with more substantial reductions in current work ability. 5.8% of those with PCC reported direct effects of PCC on their occupational situation, with 1.6% of those with PCC completely dropping out of the workforce. Interpretation These findings highlight the need for providing support and interdisciplinary interventions to individuals affected by PCC to help them maintain or regain their work ability and productivity. Funding Federal Office of Public Health, Department of Health of the Canton of Zurich, University of Zurich Foundation, Switzerland; Horizon Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Kerksieck
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Tala Ballouz
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Sarah R Haile
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Celine Schumacher
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Joanne Lacy
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Anja Domenghino
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), Rämistrasse 100, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
| | - Jan S Fehr
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Georg F Bauer
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Holger Dressel
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Milo A Puhan
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Menges
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI), University of Zurich (UZH), Hirschengraben 84, Zurich 8001, Switzerland
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11
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Descatha A, Evanoff BA, Fadel M. Post-COVID condition or "long COVID", return-to work, and occupational health research. Scand J Work Environ Health 2023; 49:165-169. [PMID: 36944213 PMCID: PMC10621897 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.4088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Descatha
- University Angers, CHU Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset, UMR_S 1085, SFR ICAT, Angers, France.
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