Characteristics Associated With Persistent Long COVID Symptoms in Healthcare Personnel Infected With SARS-CoV-2 Between August 2022 and May 2024: A Multicenter Cohort Analysis of US Healthcare Personnel.

Background

Long COVID affects a significant proportion of COVID-19 survivors. This study examined persistent Long COVID symptoms among healthcare personnel (HCP) and evaluated associations with vaccination, prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, underlying health conditions, and demographics.

Methods

COVID-19-positive HCP were identified from a multi-state study of COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness. Electronic surveys collected symptom data at 3- and 6-month post-infection. The primary outcome, persistent Long COVID symptoms, was defined as the same moderate or severe symptom reported at both timepoints. Multivariable logistic regression estimated adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for persistent Long COVID, adjusting for demographics, recent vaccination, prior infection, and acute-phase illness severity.

Results

Overall, 11.3% (169/1496) of HCP reported persistent Long COVID symptoms. Older age was associated with higher odds of persistent symptoms when compared to HCP ages 18-29 years: for ages 50-64 years, aOR = 1.94, 95% CI 1.09-3.49 and ≥ 65 years, aOR = 3.52, 95% CI 1.50-8.25. Female HCP had greater odds for persistent Long COVID (aOR = 3.05, 95% CI 1.58-5.86) than males. Prior infection (aOR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.14-2.78) and ≥ 2 underlying health conditions (aOR = 2.49, 95% CI 1.66-3.73) were associated with higher odds. Conversely, physicians (aOR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.05-0.91), licensed practical and registered nurses (aOR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.37-0.94), and therapists or therapist assistants (aOR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.09-0.77) had lower odds versus non-clinical HCP.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the frequency of persistent Long COVID symptoms among HCP and their potential to strain the healthcare workforce.