Long COVID Cases Will Increase in Seniors

The U.S. CDC published an Early Release Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report focused on an expanding number of persons previously infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, who have reported persistent symptoms, or the onset of long-term symptoms, ≥4 weeks after acute COVID-19.

The occurrence of 26 clinical conditions previously attributed to post-COVID illness was assessed by reviewing the scientific literature.

These symptoms are commonly referred to as post-COVID conditions or long COVID.

Issued on May 24, 2022, this study found COVID-19 survivors have twice the risk of developing pulmonary embolism or respiratory conditions.

And 20% of COVID-19 survivors aged 18–64 years and 25% of survivors aged ≥65 years experienced at least one incident condition that might be attributable to the previous COVID-19.

The most common incident conditions in both age groups were respiratory symptoms and musculoskeletal pain.

'As the cumulative number of persons infected with SARS-CoV-2 increases, the number of survivors suffering post-COVID conditions is also likely to increase,' stated these researchers.

Therefore, implementation of COVID-19 prevention strategies, as well as routine assessment for post-COVID conditions among persons who survive COVID-19, is critical to reducing the incidence and impact of post-COVID diseases.'

'These findings can increase awareness for post-COVID conditions and improve post-acute care and management of patients after an illness.'

Note: This CDC report was edited for mobile readership.