Association of physical symptoms with accelerometer-measured movement behaviors and functional capacity in individuals with Long COVID.

Long COVID has been linked to a decline in physical activity and functional capacity. However, it remains unclear which physical symptoms are associated with specific aspects of movement behaviors and functional capacity. We aimed to investigate the associations of fatigue, dyspnea, post-exertional malaise, myalgia, and the co-occurrence of symptoms with movement behaviors and functional capacity in individuals with Long COVID. A cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted. Questionnaires were used to assess fatigue, dyspnea, post-exertional malaise, and myalgia. Accelerometry was employed to assess sedentary time, steps per day, light physical activity, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. The six-minute walk test, 30-s chair stand test, and timed up and go were used to assess functional capacity. One hundred and two community-dwelling individuals who had been living with Long COVID for 15 ± 10 months participated in the study. Fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and the co-occurrence of physical symptoms showed a negative association with step count, while post-exertional malaise was also negatively associated with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Dyspnea showed a negative association with the functional score, including all tests. Our findings suggest that fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and the co-occurrence of physical symptoms are negatively associated with physical activity, while dyspnea is negatively associated with functional capacity in individuals with Long COVID.

Long COVID symptoms and sleep problems: a population-based study.

To investigate the association between symptoms of long-term effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (long COVID) and sleep problems in a sample population from southern Brazil. This cross-sectional study used data from the SULcovid-19 survey, developed in the municipality of Rio Grande, RS, Brazil. The outcome, long COVID, was investigated through the presence of 18 symptoms, and the exposure variable was sleep problems. Poisson regression with robust adjustment for variance was used to estimate crude and adjusted prevalence ratios for the outcome-exposure relationship. Odds ratio was calculated through multinomial regression of the relationship between the number of symptoms of long COVID and sleep problems. Analyses were adjusted for sex, age, marital status, income, body mass index, smoking status, comorbidities, and hospital admission. A total of 2919 adults and older adults were interviewed. The prevalence of long COVID was 48.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 46.5-50.1%) and sleep problems were reported by 41.2% of the sample (95% CI 39.4-43.0%). Individuals with sleep problems were more likely to exhibit altered sensitivity (prevalence ratio [PR] 3.27; 95% CI 1.96-5.45), nasal congestion (PR 2.75; 95% CI 1.53-4.94), musculoskeletal symptoms (PR 1.75; 95% CI 1.48-2.06), respiratory issues (PR 1.58; 95% CI 1.24-2.01), and one or more symptom of long COVID (PR 1.27; 95% CI 1.15-1.39). Approximately one-half of the population analysed had long COVID, and four of 10 reported experiencing sleep problems. In addition, the sample tended to have experienced a greater number of symptoms compared with those who reported to sleep well.

Long-term outcome of patients with diabetic-range hyperglycemia first detected during admission for COVID-19: A single-center observational study.

Background and Objective: Diabetic-range hyperglycemia has been reported for the first time in many patients during their hospitalization with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study was undertaken to determine the proportion of such patients who actually have new-onset diabetes mellitus rather than transient hyperglycemia during acute illness. Methods: This descriptive study included patients with diabetic-range hyperglycemia first detected at or during admission for COVID-19 but no prior history of diabetes. The study protocol involved patient identification, data recording from the case-notes, and telephonic follow-ups. Blood sugar levels done at least two weeks after discharge or the last dose of steroids, whichever was later, were recorded, and patients were categorized as diabetic, pre-diabetic, or non-diabetic accordingly. Results: Out of 86 patients, ten (11.6%) were found to have developed diabetes, and 13 (15.1%) had pre-diabetes on follow-up. About 63 (73.3%) patients had become normoglycemic. Eight (80%) out of the ten patients with new-onset diabetes were on treatment, with five (50%) achieving the target glycemic levels. The associations of new-onset diabetes with age, gender, comorbidities, intensive care stay, and steroid administration were not found to be statistically significant (p-values 0.809, 0.435, 0.324, 0.402, and 0.289, respectively). Interpretation and Conclusions: While a majority of post-COVID patients with diabetic-range hyperglycemia returned to a normoglycemic state after the acute illness had settled down, one in ten developed new-onset diabetes, and an additional one in seven had impaired glucose tolerance. Thus, regular glucose screening is crucial for such patients and lifestyle modifications should be encouraged to reduce the risk of diabetes. Loss to follow-up and reliance on a single set of blood sugar readings for classification were some of the limitations of this study.

Analysis of long COVID in health personnel: comparing gender and work factors.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to describe the reported prevalence of post-COVID-19 syndrome and its characteristics by gender, profession, and other determinants among health care workers. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among health workers with a history of COVID-19 in Latin America, and the 2030 responses from Argentina were selected for this analysis. Sociodemographic information, as well as data on initial course of COVID-19, and the persistence of 21 symptoms beyond the first month, their severity, clinical evolution, and health care demands were collected. RESULTS: The reported prevalence of post-COVID-19 syndrome was higher in women for each of the symptom clusters studied. Severity of the initial symptoms, female gender, nursing profession, multi-employment, and working in emergency areas were all independent variables. DISCUSSION: The greater strain of health care workers during the pandemic -highly feminized- and the associated gender conditions may partially explain these findings.

Introducción: El objetivo del estudio fue describir la prevalencia del reporte de síndrome post-COVID-19 y sus características según género, profesión y otros determinantes sociales, en personal de salud. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal en profesionales de salud con antecedentes de COVID-19 en América Latina, y para este análisis se seleccionaron las 2030 respuestas de Argentina. Se recolectaron datos sociodemográficos, información sobre el curso inicial de la enfermedad COVID-19, y persistencia de 21 síntomas más allá del primer mes, su gravedad, evolución clínica y requerimiento de servicios de salud. Resultados: Se identificó que la prevalencia reportada de síndrome post-COVID-19 fue mayor en mujeres para cada uno de los grupos de síntomas explorados. La gravedad del cuadro inicial, el género femenino, la profesión de enfermería, el multiempleo y trabajar en áreas de emergencia fueron variables independientes. Discusión: La mayor sobrecarga del personal de salud durante la pandemia ­altamente feminizado­ y las determinaciones de género asociadas podrían explicar parcialmente estos hallazgos.

Antidepressant treatment initiation among children and adolescents with acute versus long COVID: a large retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Child and adolescent antidepressant use increased post-pandemic, but it is unknown if this disproportionally affected those who develop post-acute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID) or long COVID. This study compared the risk of antidepressant initiation among children and adolescents with long COVID with those who had COVID but did not have evidence of long COVID. METHODS: Our retrospective cohort study of children and adolescents aged 3-17 years at the first evidence of COVID or long COVID from October 1, 2021 through April 4, 2022 was conducted within Komodo's Healthcare Map™ database. The index date was the earliest date of a medical claim associated with a COVID (COVID comparators) or long COVID diagnosis (long COVID cases). The baseline period was six months before the index date. The outcome was antidepressant initiation within twelve months after the index date. Due to the large number of COVID relative to long COVID cases, COVID comparators were randomly selected with a ratio of 2 COVID to 1 long COVID. We used propensity score matching to control for confounding due to imbalances in the baseline covariates. Log-binomial models estimated the relative risk (RR) of antidepressant initiation in the propensity score matched sample. We conducted several sensitivity analyses to test the robustness of our findings to several assumptions. RESULTS: Our child and adolescent sample included 18 274 with COVID and 9137 with long COVID. Compared with those with COVID, a larger proportion of long COVID children and adolescents had psychiatric disorders, psychotropic use, medical comorbidities, were previously hospitalized, or visited the emergency department. In the propensity score-adjusted analysis, the long COVID group had a statistically significant higher risk of antidepressant initiation relative to the COVID comparator (adjusted-RR: 1.40, 95% CI = 1.20, 1.62). Our findings were robust across sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS: The increased risk of antidepressant initiation following long COVID warrants further study to better understand the underlying reasons for this higher risk. Emerging evidence of long COVID's impact on child mental health has important implications for prevention and early interventions.

Post-acute CoVid-19 syndrome (PACS) linked cardiovascular symptoms.

Officials have marked the end of the CoVid-19 pandemic, yet we continue to learn more about the SARS-CoV2 virus itself and its lasting multidimensional effects after acute infection. Long COVID, or the post-acute CoViD-19 syndrome (PACS), manifests as a wide range of prolonged physical, mental, and emotional symptoms over at least 1 to 12 months after SARS-CoV2 infection. Here, we describe certain pervasive clinical consequences of PACS on the cardiovascular system, and insight on the potentially improved prognoses in heart failure patients.

Prevalence of Long COVID, and the Impact on Diabetes Management and Physical Activity Participation, in People with Type 2 Diabetes: An Australia-wide Cross-Sectional Online Survey.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this research was to understand the prevalence and impact of long COVID on people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Specifically, to identify the proportion of people with T2D who have had COVID-19 and experience long COVID symptoms, and explore how these ongoing symptoms impact diabetes management and physical activity participation. METHODS: This study was an online survey of adults with T2D who had confirmed COVID-19 ≥12 weeks prior to participation, in Australia. Respondents were asked to report the presence (and severity) of long COVID symptoms, and for those with long COVID, the impact of their symptoms on diabetes management (blood glucose, body weight) and physical activity participation (activities of daily living, work/study, exercise). RESULTS: 1,046 people with T2D responded (median age 61.0[49.8-70.0]years; 56.0% male, 42.1% female, 1% non-binary/transgender; median T2D duration 10.0[5.0-18.0]years, median time since COVID-19 infection 33.0[20.3-36.1]weeks). Almost one third (30%) of respondents reported long COVID symptoms (present 12 weeks or more following most recent infection); 40% of respondents with long COVID symptoms reported a worsening of their diabetes management since their COVID-19 infection, with 29% reported trouble controlling their blood glucose and 43% reporting a higher body weight. Two thirds of respondents with ongoing symptoms reported that these symptoms moderately to severely impact their ability to perform activities of daily living, work, and/or exercise. The majority of those with long COVID reported reducing the frequency, duration, and/or intensity of exercise since their COVID-19 infection, with 36.1% not yet returning to their pre-infection exercise levels; 66% cite ongoing symptoms as the primary reason for this. CONCLUSIONS: Physical activity is a crucial component of diabetes management. However, the high prevalence of long COVID is hindering participation in this population, as well as deleteriously impacting diabetes management. Developing strategies to support people with T2D and long COVID to recommence safe levels of physical activity is of critical importance.

Neurologic manifestations of Long COVID in Colombia: a comparative analysis of post-hospitalization vs. non-hospitalized patients.

Objective: To analyze patient-reported outcomes, cognitive function, and persistent symptoms in patients with neurologic post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (Neuro-PASC) in Colombia. Methods: We recruited patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 and PASC symptoms lasting more than 6 weeks at the CES University and CES Clinic (Medellín, Colombia). We included 50 post-hospitalization Neuro-PASC (PNP) and 50 non-hospitalized Neuro-PASC (NNP) patients. Long-COVID symptoms, cognitive (NIH Toolbox v2.1-Spanish for 18+), patient-reported (PROMIS) outcomes, and relevant medical history were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed via generalized linear models. Results: Overall, brain fog (60%), myalgia (42%), and numbness or tingling (41%) were the most common neurological symptoms, while fatigue (74%), sleep problems (46%), and anxiety (44%) were the most common non-neurological symptoms. Compared to NNP, PNP patients showed a higher frequency of abnormal neurological exam findings (64% vs. 42%, p = 0.028). Both groups had impaired quality of life (QoL) in domains of cognition, fatigue, anxiety depression and sleep disturbance, and performed worse on processing speed and attention than a normative population. In addition, NNP patients performed worse on executive function than PNP patients (T-score 42.6 vs. 48.5, p = 0.012). PASC symptoms of anxiety and depression were associated with worse QoL and cognitive outcomes. Brain fog and fatigue remained persistent symptoms across all durations of Long COVID. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the high incidence and heterogeneity of the neurologic symptoms and impacts of Long COVID even more than 2 years from disease onset. Early detection, emotional support and targeted management of Neuro-PASC patients are warranted.

Prevalence and risk factors of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) among veterans in the airborne hazards and open burn pit registry: a prospective, observational, nested study.

BACKGROUND: Veterans have unique military risk factors and exposures during deployment that may augment their risk of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). The purpose of this study is to identify potential risk factors for PASC among Veterans in the national Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry (AHOBPR). METHODS: This prospective observational study consisted of a semi-structured interview conducted via phone or videoconference from November 2021 to December 2022 among a stratified random sample of deployed Veterans nested within the national AHOBPR with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. PASC was defined as persistent new-onset symptoms lasting more than 2 months after initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. Deployment history, airborne hazards exposure and symptoms were obtained from the AHOBPR self-assessment questionnaire completed prior to SARS-CoV-2 infection (past). Post-infection symptoms and health behaviors obtained at study interview (present) were used to test the hypothesis that deployment experience and exposure increases the risk for PASC. RESULTS: From a sample of 212 Veterans, 149 (70%) met criteria for PASC with a mean age of 47 ± 8.7 years; 73 (49%) were women and 76 (51%) were men, and 129 (82.6%) continued to experience persistent symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 (596.8 ± 160.4 days since initial infection). Neither exposure to airborne hazards (OR 0.97, CI 0.92-1.03) or to burn pits (OR 1.00, CI 0.99-1.00) augmented risk for PASC. CONCLUSIONS: PASC is highly common among Veterans enrolled in the AHOBPR, but we did not observe any unique military risk factors (e.g., airborne hazards exposure) that augmented the risk of PASC. Our findings may provide guidance to clinicians in the VHA network to administer appropriate care for Veterans experiencing PASC.

Prevalence, risk factors, and impact of long COVID in a socially vulnerable community in Brazil: a prospective cohort study.

Background: Long COVID is an emerging global public health issue. Socially vulnerable communities in low- and-middle-income countries were severely impacted by the pandemic and are underrepresented in research. This prospective study aimed to determine the prevalence of long COVID, its impact on health, and associated risk factors in one such community in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Methods: A total of 710 individuals aged 18 and older, with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection at least three months prior, were enrolled between November 25, 2021, and May 5, 2022. Participants were assessed via telephone or in person using a standardized questionnaire to evaluate their perception of recovery, symptoms, quality of life, and functional status. Findings: Twenty percent of participants did not feel fully recovered, 22% experienced new or persistent symptoms, 26% had worsened functional status, 18% had increased dyspnoea, and 32% reported a worse quality of life. Persistent symptoms included headache, cough, fatigue, muscle pain, and shortness of breath. Dyspnoea during the acute phase was the strongest independent predictor of worsening outcomes. Females and individuals with comorbidities were more likely to report worse recovery, functioning, dyspnoea, and quality of life. Interpretation: Our findings reveal a high burden of severe and persistent physical and mental health sequelae in a socially vulnerable community following COVID-19. Funding: UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Wellcome Trust Grant (222048/Z/20/Z), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Postural balance, mobility, and handgrip strength one year after hospitalization due to COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: Symptoms such as impairment of postural balance, mobility and muscle strength can last up to 12 months post COVID-19 hospitalization, need to be better understood, as they can have repercussions in activities of daily living. RESEARCH QUESTION: What happens to postural balance, mobility, and handgrip strength of COVID-19 patients after hospitalization? METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted with patients of both sexes, aged ≥18, admitted to hospital diagnosed with COVID-19. Outcomes were assessed at 1, 4, 6, and 12 months post-discharge, including: postural balance - Brief-Balance Evaluation Systems Test, mobility - Timed "Up & Go" Test, and handgrip strength - dynamometry. Prevalence values of impaired postural balance and mobility and lower-than-expected handgrip strength were calculated by point estimate and 95 % confidence interval. Shapiro-Wilk test showed that our data did not have a normal distribution, so the Friedman Test and the test of proportions were used for the statistical analysis. RESULTS: Performance on postural balance was improved after four months of hospital discharge, but the improvement in mobility and handgrip strength only occurred after six months. After six months of discharge, the proportion of individuals with impairments began to decrease. A higher prevalence of impairments in postural balance and mobility occurred at one month post-discharge, which reduced over time. However, the values of impairments for postural balance and mobility were still high after 12 months of follow-up. SIGNIFICANCE: There was a high prevalence of postural balance and mobility impairment 1 month after discharge, which was still high 12 months after discharge. The prevalence of lower-than-expected handgrip strength demonstrated limited change over time. Results highlight the need for assessment of postural balance, mobility and hand grip strength in post COVID-19 related hospitalization protocols, and long-term physical therapy interventions to address these impairments when identified to improve long term outcomes.

Follow-up of Cardiopulmonary Responses Using Submaximal Exercise Test in Older Adults with Post-COVID-19.

Background: Data on cardiopulmonary fitness in older adults in the longer term after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are of interest as the time required for the full recovery of physical fitness after COVID-19 remains unclear. Some studies have reported that patients do not recover physical fitness for up to 6 or 12 months after COVID-19, whereas other studies have observed full recovery after 12-months. Therefore, this study evaluated and compared the cardiopulmonary responses induced by the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and 1-minute sit-to-stand-test (STST) results at 3, 6, and 12 months in older adults with and without COVID-19. Methods: This study included 59 older adults with and without a history of COVID-19. The cardiopulmonary response parameters including heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse oxygen saturation (O2 sat), rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and leg fatigue were evaluated in the participants after 6MWT and 1-min-STST assessments. Results: Post-COVID-19, older adults showed statistically significant differences in HR, SBP, DBP, O2 sat, RPE, leg fatigue, 6MWT time, and 1-min-STST step numbers at 3, 6, and 12 months (P < 0.001). Moreover, older adults showed statistically significant differences in HR, SBP, DBP, RPE, leg fatigue, O2 sat, and 6MWT distance at 3 months post-COVID-19 compared with those in older adults without COVID-19 (P < 0.001). Conclusion: While older adults showed recovery of cardiopulmonary response parameters according to 6MWT and 1-min-STST findings at the 12-month follow-up post-COVID-19, these results of these measurements did not return to the values observed in older adults without COVID-19.

Prevalence and patterns of post-COVID-19 symptoms in recovered patients of Delhi, India: a population-based study.

BACKGROUND: Post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms were widely reported. However, data on post-COVID-19 conditions following infection with the Omicron variant remained scarce. This prospective study was conducted to understand the prevalence, patterns, and duration of symptoms in patients who had recovered from COVID-19. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted across 11 districts of Delhi, India, among individuals who had recovered from COVID-19. Study participants were enrolled, and then returned for post-recovery follow-up at 3 months and 6 months interval. RESULTS: The mean age of study participants was 42.07 years, with a standard deviation of 14.89 years. The majority of the participants (79.7%) reported experiencing post-COVID-19 symptoms. The most common symptoms included joint pain (36.0%), persistent dry cough (35.7%), anxiety (28.4%), and shortness of breath (27.1%). Other symptoms were persistent fatigue (21.6%), persistent headache (20.0%), forgetfulness (19.7%), and limb weakness (18.6%). The longest duration of symptom was observed to be anxiety (138.75±54.14 days), followed by fatigue (137.57±48.33 days), shortness of breath (131.89±60.21 days), and joint pain/swelling (131.59±58.76 days). At the first follow-up visit, 2.2% of participants presented with abnormal electrocardiogram readings, but no abnormalities were noticed during the second follow-up. Additionally, 4.06% of participants exhibited abnormal chest X-ray findings at the first followup, which decreased to 2.16% by the second visit. CONCLUSION: The most frequently reported post-COVID-19 symptoms were joint pain, dry cough, anxiety and shortness of breath. These clinical symptoms persisted for up to 6 months, with evidence of multi-system involvement. Consequently, findings highlighted the need for long-term follow-up during the post-COVID-19 period.

Reduction in ACE2 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells during COVID-19 - implications for post COVID-19 conditions.

BACKGROUND: Severe COVID-19 is uncommon, restricted to 19% of the total population. In response to the first virus wave (alpha variant of SARS-CoV-2), we investigated whether a biomarker indicated severity of disease and, in particular, if variable expression of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in blood might clarify this difference in risk and of post COVID -19 conditions (PCC). METHODS: The IRB-approved study compared patients hospitalized with severe COVID-19 to healthy controls. Severe infection was defined requiring oxygen or increased oxygen need from baseline at admission with positive COVID-19 PCR. A single blood sample was obtained from patients within a day of admission. ACE2 RNA expression in blood cells was measured by an RT-PCR assay. Plasma ACE1 and ACE2 enzyme activities were quantified by fluorescent peptides. Plasma TIMP-1, PIIINP and MMP-9 antigens were quantified by ELISA. Data were entered into REDCap and analyzed using STATA v 14 and GraphPad Prism v 10. RESULTS: Forty-eight patients and 72 healthy controls were recruited during the pandemic. ACE2 RNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was rarely detected acutely during severe COVID-19 but common in controls (OR for undetected ACE2: 12.4 [95% CI: 2.62-76.1]). ACE2 RNA expression in PBMC did not determine plasma ACE1 and ACE2 activity, suggesting alternative cell-signaling pathways. Markers of fibrosis (TIMP-1 and PIIINP) and vasculopathy (MMP-9) were additionally elevated. ACE2 RNA expression during severe COVID-19 often responded within hours to convalescent plasma. Analogous to oncogenesis, we speculate that potent, persistent, cryptic processes following COVID-19 (the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), fibrosis and vasculopathy) initiate or promote post-COVID-19 conditions (PCC) in susceptible individuals. CONCLUSIONS: This work elucidates biological and temporal plausibility for ACE2, TIMP1, PIIINP and MMP-9 in the pathogenesis of PCC. Intersection of these independent systems is uncommon and may in part explain the rarity of PCC.

Clinical and Physiological Variables in Patients with Post-COVID-19 Condition and Persistent Fatigue.

Background/Objectives: Post-COVID-19 condition can manifest through various symptoms such as dyspnea, cognitive disturbances, and fatigue, with mechanisms related to these symptoms, particularly those related to fatigue, still requiring further clarification. Therefore, our aim was to assess the clinical and physiological variables in patients with post-COVID-19 condition and persistent fatigue. Methods: After one year post-COVID-19 infection, the patients underwent a comprehensive evaluation, including a complete blood count, a metabolic panel, complete spirometry, and assessments of dyspnea, quality of life, anxiety and depression, physical capacity, body composition, muscle strength, comorbidities, and medications. The participants were categorized into two groups: G1-fatigue and G2-non-fatigue. Results: Seventy-seven patients (53% female; 55 ± 11.8 years) were included, 37 in G1 and 40 in G2. As for clinical markers and symptoms of illness, in those with persistent fatigue symptoms, a greater sensation of dyspnea [BDI score: 7.5 (6-9) vs. 12 (9-12), p < 0.001; mMRC score: 1 (1-2) vs. 0 (0-1), p = 0.002], worse quality of life [SGRQ total score: 1404 (1007-1897) vs. 497 (274-985); p < 0.001], higher levels of anxiety [HADS-A score: 8 (5-9) vs. 3 (0.5-4); p < 0.001], and a reduction in peripheral and inspiratory muscle strength [handgrip strength: 34 (28-40) vs. 40 (30-46.5) kgf, p = 0.044; MIP: -81 ± 31 vs. -111 ± 33 mmHg, p < 0.001)] were observed. Conclusions: Those with persistent fatigue exhibited a greater sensation of dyspnea, higher levels of anxiety, reduced peripheral and inspiratory muscle strength, and a greater impairment of quality of life. The severity of fatigue was influenced by the worsening quality of life, heightened anxiety levels, and decreased peripheral muscle strength. Additionally, the worse quality of life was associated with a higher sensation of dyspnea, lower muscle strength, and reduced physical capacity.

Protocol for a longitudinal study examining the trajectory of COVID-19, post-COVID, multidimensional disadvantage and health-related quality of life in India: the IndiQol Project.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the persistence of symptoms after infection, commonly referred to as 'post-COVID' or 'long-COVID'. While countries in high-resource countries have highlighted the increased risk of disadvantaged communities, there is limited understanding of how COVID-19 and post-COVID conditions affect marginalised populations in low-income and middle-income countries. We study the longitudinal patterns of COVID-19, post-COVID symptoms and their impact on the health-related quality of life through the IndiQol Project. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The IndiQol Project conducts household surveys across India to collect data on the incidence of COVID-19 and multidimensional well-being using a longitudinal design. We select a representative sample across six states surveyed over four waves. A two-stage sampling design was used to randomly select primary sampling units in rural and urban areas of each State. Using power analysis, we select an initial sample of 3000 household and survey all adult household members in each wave. The survey data will be analysed using limited dependent variable models and matching techniques to provide insights into the impact of COVID-19 pandemic and post-COVID on health and well-being of individuals in India. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethics approval for the IndiQol Project was obtained from the Macquarie University Human Research Ethics Committee in Sydney, Australia and Institutional Review Board of Morsel in India. The project results will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Data collected from the IndiQol project will be deposited with the EuroQol group and will be available to use by eligible researchers on approval of request.

Long-Term Patient Symptoms and Quality of Life in Adults After COVID-19: A Real Life Study.

Objective: To characterize long-term patient-reported symptoms and quality of life, in adults after COVID-19. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study in Cantabria (Northern Spain) including adults with PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 694) with a time period between 4.7 and 24 month post-SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis, and their close contacts (n = 663) (PCR negative and without suspected infection) obtained from simple random sampling of a total of 47,773 cases and 94,301 close contacts. The ISARIC survey was used as screening tool with self-reported "non-feeling fully recovery (NFFR)" defined as primary outcome. Results: 16.57% (n = 115/694) reported NFFR. Most prevalent symptoms were in order of frequency: Fatigue (54.8%); Loss of smell (40.9%); Problems speaking or communicating (29.6%); Loss of taste (28.7%); Confusion/lack of concentration (27.8%); Persistent muscle pain (24.3%) and Shortness of breath/breathlessness (23.5%). When comparing the three ordinal groups (Close contacts, COVID-19 feeling recovered, and COVID-19 NFFR) the prevalence of these symptoms was increasingly higher among each ordinal group (p < 0.001). Female gender was significantly associated with NFFR: (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.56); as well as older age: aOR per 10 year increment = 1.15. Lastly, they scored on average 9.63 points less in Euroquol. Conclusions: More than 15% of patients in our real-life population-based study, reported NFFR, being female sex and older age independent predictors of this condition. Most symptoms in these patients were in accordance with WHO definition of post COVID-19 condition in adults, and were less prevalent in COVID-19 feeling recovered and close contact respectively, with a statistically significant dose-response pattern, and with a large decrease in quality of life according to Euroquol.

Objetivo: Caracterizar los síntomas y la calidad de vida informados a largo plazo después de un episodio agudo de COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio transversal en Cantabria (norte de España) que incluye adultos con infección por SARS-CoV-2 confirmada por PCR (n = 694) tras un periodo entre 4,7 y 24 meses desde el diagnóstico y sus contactos estrechos (n = 663), obtenidos por muestreo aleatorio simple a partir de 47.773 casos y 94.301 contactos. Se utilizó la encuesta ISARIC, estableciéndose como variable resultado principal la respuesta «no-sentirse completamente recuperado (NSCR)¼. Resultados: El 16,57% (n = 115/694) declararon NSCR. Los síntomas más prevalentes fueron, por orden de frecuencia: fatiga (54,8%), pérdida del olfato (40,9%), problemas para hablar o comunicarse (29,6%), pérdida del gusto (28,7%), confusión/falta de concentración (27,8%), dolor muscular persistente (24,3%) y dificultad para respirar/falta de aire (23,5%). Al comparar los tres grupos ordinales (contactos estrechos, COVID-19 recuperados y COVID-19 NSCR), la prevalencia de estos síntomas fue mayor en cada grupo (p < 0,001). El sexo femenino se asoció significativamente con NSCR: Odds Ratio ajustada (aOR) = 1,56), así como la edad avanzada: aOR por cada 10 años = 1,15. Por último, obtuvieron en Euroquol una puntuación media de 9,63 puntos menos. Conclusiones: Más del 15% de los pacientes reportaron NSCR, siendo el sexo femenino y la edad factores predictores independientes. La mayoría de los síntomas en estos pacientes coincidieron con los de la definición de condición post-COVID-19 de la OMS y fueron menos prevalentes en contactos estrechos y COVID-19 que se sintieron recuperados, con un patrón dosis respuesta, y con una menor calidad de vida según Euroquol.

SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels and long COVID occurrence in blood donors.

BACKGROUND: Long COVID is a common condition lacking consensus definition; determinants remain incompletely understood. Characterizing immune profiles associated with long COVID could support the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies. METHODS: We used a survey to investigate blood donors' infection/vaccination history and acute/persistent symptoms following COVID-19. The prevalence of long COVID was evaluated using self-report and an adapted definition from the RECOVER study. We evaluated factors associated with long COVID, focusing on anti-spike and anti-nucleocapsid SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Lastly, we investigated long COVID clinical subphenotypes using hierarchical clustering. RESULTS: Of 33,610 participants, 16,003 (48%) reported having had COVID-19; 1853 (12%) had self-reported long COVID, 685 (4%) met an adapted RECOVER definition, and 2050 (13%) met at least one definition. Higher anti-nucleocapsid levels measured 12-24 weeks post-infection were associated with higher risk of self-reported and RECOVER long COVID. Higher anti-spike IgG levels measured 12-24 weeks post-infection were associated with lower risk of self-reported long COVID. Higher total anti-spike measured 24-48 weeks post-infection was associated with lower risk of RECOVER long COVID. Cluster analysis identified four clinical subphenotypes; patterns included neurological and psychiatric for cluster 1; neurological and respiratory for cluster 2; multi-systemic for cluster 3; and neurological for cluster 4. DISCUSSION: Long COVID prevalence in blood donors varies depending on the adopted definition. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were time-dependently associated with long COVID; higher anti-nucleocapsid levels were associated with higher risk; and higher anti-spike levels were associated with lower risk of long COVID. Different underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms may be associated with distinct clinical subphenotypes.

Acceptability and feasibility of a theatre-based wellness programme to support people living with long COVID: a single-arm feasibility study.

OBJECTIVES: To determine acceptability and feasibility of a theatre-based wellness programme to support the health and well-being of people with long COVID. DESIGN: Single-group, repeated-measures feasibility study. SETTING: Community centre and online. PARTICIPANTS: Adults with diagnosed long COVID experiencing breathlessness, pain and/or loneliness. INTERVENTION: Six-week participatory creative programme delivered to one online and one in-person group facilitated by movement, voice and drama consultants using breathing, visualisation, singing, poetry, storytelling and movement exercises. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Programme acceptability and feasibility measured via uptake, reasons for non-attendance and barriers to engagement. SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Feasibility of recruitment and data collection procedures measured through proportion of missing data and follow-up rates, mechanisms of action of the programme identified through qualitative interviews, changes in mental health, well-being, quality of life, loneliness, social support, fatigue, breathlessness and post-COVID-19 functional status at 8-week follow-up. RESULTS: 21 people expressed interest in participating, 20 people took part in the programme, 19 completed baseline and 16 completed follow-up assessments. Participants attended an average of 4.8 of 6 sessions (SD=1.5, range 2-6). Exploratory analyses demonstrated significant improvements in self-rated health (t-test mean difference=0.12, 95% CI=0.00, 0.23, p=0.04) and chronic fatigue symptoms (mean difference=-3.50, 95% CI=-6.97, -0.03, p=0.05) at 8 weeks. Key mechanisms of action that supported health and well-being included: increased sense of community, illness acceptance, experiencing joy, increased confidence in managing everyday life, increased ability to relax and reconnection with previous identity. Barriers to engagement included: activities being outside of the participant's comfort zone, ongoing long COVID symptoms, emotional consequences of sharing experiences and connectivity and connecting online. CONCLUSIONS: A 6-week theatre-based programme was perceived as acceptable to most participants and resulted in some positive psychosocial impacts. The findings provide a rationale for supporting the ongoing development and scale-up of this and related arts programmes to support people living with long COVID.

Assessment of health-related quality of life after mild COVID-19 infection.

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) affected the health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and its impact on well-being is not sufficiently understood yet. The worsening of HRQoL and symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, depression, chronic Headache, Myalgia, ageusia, olfactory disorders, and cognitive impairment can be seen in people of different ages and genders after COVID-19 infection, even mild infections without hospitalization. These issues generate a disease burden that can reduce work skills and cause social, psychological, and neuropsychiatric challenges. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the HRQoL of patients affected by COVID-19, the domains most affected, and their relationship with fatigue, anxiety, depression, chronic Headache and Myalgia, ageusia, olfactory disorders, and cognitive impairment. METHODS: An analytical transverse was conducted with 143 patients after COVID-19 infection. The patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMS) were collected by the 36-item Short Form survey (SF-36), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Mini-Mental State Examination-2 (MMSE-2), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), and a questionnaire regarding symptoms such as chronic Headache, myalgia, and olfactory disorders. Spearman's correlation test was used to correlate the performance of the patients on different PROMS. RESULTS: Fatigue, depression, and anxiety were negatively correlated with all the SF-36 domains, and patients with subjective cognitive complaints had low scores in all SF-36 domains. Furthermore, those with chronic Headaches had low scores in physical functioning, role-physical functioning, and vitality. Regarding myalgia complaints, the worst scores were observed in the physical functioning and vitality domains. Patients with ageusia had low scores in general health perceptions, and those with olfactory dysfunction had low scores in the vitality and mental health domains. CONCLUSIONS: Although the acute phase of COVID-19 has resolved, knowledge about HRQoL after this period is essential since many individual and collective changes have been taking place until today-patients with neuropsychiatric manifestations that persisted after the acute phase showed lower overall quality of life.