Long COVID symptoms in a population-based sample of persons discharged home from hospital

The impact of long COVID among persons hospitalized and discharged home is unknown. We aimed to (1) report the prevalence of long COVID in persons hospitalized for COVID-19 and discharged home; (2) estimate the prevalence of physical, sensory, and psychological/mental health impairments; and (3) explore associated factors.

We conducted a telephone survey of adult residents in Laval, Quebec, who were discharged home ≥ 2 months post-hospitalization for COVID-19. Participants responded to a standard questionnaire regarding persistent symptoms. We calculated the prevalence of long COVID and of persistent types of symptoms and evaluated associated factors using bivariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression.

In our sample (n = 398), 70% reported physical symptoms, 58% psychological problems, and 16% sensory impairments. 31.5% reported being troubled by persistent symptoms (long COVID). Factors associated with long COVID were a greater number of symptoms (odds ratio (OR) = 1.97, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.69-2.28) and increased hospital stay (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.01-1.06). Other factors associated with physical and psychological symptoms were female sex (OR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.27-3.71 and OR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.25-3.39; respectively), higher education level (OR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.20-3.68 and OR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.44-4.14; respectively), and obesity (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.15-3.34 and OR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.05-2.77; respectively).

In this population-based study of persons hospitalized for COVID-19 and discharged home, nearly one third were troubled by symptoms for 2 months or more post-discharge. There was a high proportion with persistent physical and psychological/mental health symptoms. Further research will assess the specific needs of these patients to inform health policy makers on service requirements for these persons.