Understanding post-COVID syndrome in healthcare workers: lessons for future pandemic response.

AIM: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of post-COVID syndrome (PCS) and identify associated risk factors among healthcare workers (HCWs) in a large tertiary care hospital, with the objective of highlighting the importance of preparedness for similar post-viral syndromes in future pandemics.

BACKGROUND

Post-COVID syndrome, a form of post-viral syndrome, encompasses a range of long-term symptoms affecting multiple organ systems, which can persist after the recovery from COVID-19.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online self-administered survey among HCWs who tested positive for COVID-19 at a large tertiary medical centre in Beirut.

FINDINGS: Among the 134 participants who had experienced COVID-19, nearly half (47.7%) reported symptoms consistent with PCS. Fatigue, shortness of breath, poor memory, and poor concentration were the most frequently reported symptoms, lasting for over three months post-COVID-19 infection in the majority of patients. Direct care of COVID-19 patients and higher severity of acute COVID-19 infection were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of developing PCS. Further research to enhance understanding and management of post-viral syndromes is needed. Additionally, proactive strategies should be implemented to mitigate associated risks in healthcare settings, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for future pandemics.