Back to Search Start Over

Post COVID-19 syndrome among 5248 healthcare workers in England: longitudinal findings from NHS CHECK

Authors :
Dempsey, Brendan
Blake, Helen A
Madan, Ira
Stevelink, Sharon A M
Greenberg, Neil
Raine, Rosalind
Rafferty, Anne-Marie
Bhundia, Rupa
Wessely, Simon
Lamb, Danielle
Source :
Occupational and Environmental Medicine; 2024, Vol. 81 Issue: 9 p471-479, 9p
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

ObjectivesThe objectives of this study were to examine post COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) among healthcare workers (HCWs) in England and explore risk factors for the condition.MethodsData were collected by National Health Service (NHS) CHECK, a longitudinal study exploring HCWs’ mental and physical well-being during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. NHS CHECK collected data at four timepoints: the baseline survey between April 2020 and January 2021, and then three follow-up surveys at approximately 6, 12 and 32 months post baseline. PCS data were collected at 12 and 32 months, while risk factor data were from baseline. HCWs were asked what COVID-19 symptoms they experienced and for how long and were classified as having PCS if they had any symptom for ≥12 weeks. Multilevel regressions were used to examine risk factors for PCS.ResultsThis study included 5248 HCWs. While 33.6% (n=1730) reported prolonged COVID-19 symptoms consistent with PCS, only 7.4% (n=385) reported a formal diagnosis of PCS. Fatigue, difficult concentrating, insomnia and anxiety or depression were the most common PCS symptoms. Baseline risk factors for reporting PCS included screening for common mental disorders, direct contact with COVID-19 patients, pre-existing respiratory illnesses, female sex and older age.ConclusionsWhile a third of HCWs reported prolonged COVID-19 symptoms consistent with PCS, a smaller percentage reported a formal diagnosis of the condition. We replicate findings that direct contact with COVID-19 patients, older age, female sex, pre-existing respiratory illness and symptoms of common mental disorders are associated with increased risk of PCS.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
13510711 and 14707926
Volume :
81
Issue :
9
Database :
Supplemental Index
Journal :
Occupational and Environmental Medicine
Publication Type :
Periodical
Accession number :
ejs67640409
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1136/oemed-2024-109621