Abstract 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.
Abdouni et al. (Wed,) studied this question.