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Case Reports of COVID 19 Recurrence
1Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center,University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
Journal of Primary Care & Community Health
|February 15, 2021
Summary
Recurrence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) occurred in 7 patients an average of 94.9 days after initial illness. Most recurrences were asymptomatic, leading to significant personal and professional disruptions.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
- The long-term clinical course and potential for recurrence of COVID-19 are not fully understood.
- Understanding recurrent infections is crucial for public health management and patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on a series of patients experiencing recurrent COVID-19 infections.
- To characterize the timing, presentation, and impact of COVID-19 recurrence.
- To highlight the implications of recurrent COVID-19 on healthcare access and patient life.
Main Methods:
- A case series methodology was employed.
- Data were collected from 7 patients presenting with recurrent positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR tests.
- Clinical history, including prior infection status and time between episodes, was reviewed.
Main Results:
- Seven patients experienced COVID-19 recurrence, with an average of 94.9 days between initial and recurrent symptomatic illness.
- Patients had negative PCR tests or detectable antibodies between episodes.
- The majority of recurrent infections were asymptomatic, often detected during pre-procedural screening.
Conclusions:
- Recurrent COVID-19 infections can occur months after initial illness.
- Asymptomatic recurrences can lead to significant disruptions, including cancellation of medical procedures and impact on employment.
- Further research is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms and long-term outcomes of COVID-19 recurrence.
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