Characterization of demographics for those with post COVID-19 condition in Malaysia during Omicron wave

1. In a Malaysian cohort of adults affected with COVID-19, 3.4% were found to develop post COVID-19 condition.

2. Female sex, hospital admission at initial infection, and co-existing comorbidities were identified as risk factors for the development of post COVID-19 condition. 

Evidence Level Rating: 1 (Excellent)

Post COVID-19 condition has lasting effects on multiple organ systems and can impact anyone who has experienced SARS-CoV-2. There are a multitude of physical symptoms people have experienced, including fatigue and dyspnea, along with psychological impacts. In this prospective cohort study in Malaysia, researchers examined 44,386 COVID-positive individuals during the Omicron wave to elucidate the prevalence of post COVID-19 condition. The inclusion criteria included having a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 between April 23rd 2022 and June 24th 2022, while also being 18 years or older. Participants were delivered a mobile application survey to help identify individuals with post COVID-19 conditions. Across all participants, 1510 (3.4%) were found to meet the criteria for a post COVID-19 condition. Cough, fatigue, and forgetfulness were the most commonly identified symptoms for those with post COVID-19 condition, affecting 84% of these individuals. Female sex, co-existing comorbidities, and admission to hospital during initial symptom onset were identified as risk factors for the development of post COVID-19 condition. Although the mechanisms by which COVID-19 infections result in long term sequelae remain poorly characterized, this data provides further insights into the demographic information of those affected by COVID-19 condition.

Click to read the study in PLOS

Image: PD

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