Researchers in Catalonia, Spain, found that 23% of adult COVID-19 survivors develop long COVID, with 56% still experiencing symptoms two years post-infection. A study evaluating 2,764 survivors and their immune response, sociodemographic factors, and lifestyle habits identified three subtypes: mild neuromuscular, mild respiratory, and severe multi-organ.
Long-COVID symptoms varied among patients, but women were more likely to report neurologic and muscular issues, while men had more respiratory symptoms. The risk of lingering symptoms was higher in those with severe COVID-19 infections, younger age, or pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD.
Interestingly, the study discovered that vaccination before infection reduced the likelihood of long-COVID by 3.10 times. Vaccination within three months after infection also provided protection, as well as increased physical activity and better sleep habits. The researchers hope this finding helps identify protective factors against long COVID and improve infection control.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/covid-19/1-8-covid-survivors-still-have-symptoms-2-years-after-infection-researchers-say