A recent survey conducted by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) found that nearly 40% of COVID-19 survivors in the state reported experiencing symptoms lasting at least three months after their initial infection. The most common long-COVID symptoms included tiredness, fatigue, shortness of breath, brain fog, and cough.
The survey involved over 1,200 adults who were interviewed about their experiences with lingering symptoms. While the results are promising, the authors caution that the sample may not be representative of all Minnesotans experiencing lasting symptoms due to low participation rates and other limitations.
Interestingly, vaccination appears to provide protection against long-COVID symptoms. Participants who received two doses of COVID-19 vaccine had a 30% lower risk of developing long-COVID symptoms compared to those who did not receive the vaccine.
The MDH is conducting a statewide study with healthcare systems serving over 90% of Minnesota’s population to better understand and diagnose long-COVID, particularly among underserved patient groups. The study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment for individuals experiencing persistent symptoms after COVID-19 infection.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/covid-19/4-10-minnesota-covid-survivors-report-having-least-1-lingering-symptom