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Long COVID and Its Impacts: A Case-Control Study in Brazil
Cristina M Ruas1,2, Maria Laura Silva2, Ana L G F Figueiredo3
1Social Pharmacy Department, Pharmacy Faculty, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil.
Biomedicines
|July 29, 2025
Summary
Long COVID significantly impacts cognitive and respiratory health, with most assessed symptoms worsening after infection. This study highlights the need for ongoing monitoring of individuals post-COVID-19, especially in Global South regions.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Neurology
Background:
- Long COVID, or post-COVID-19 syndrome, presents persistent symptoms affecting multiple body systems for up to two years post-SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Understanding symptom prevalence in diverse populations is crucial for effective long-term management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare symptom prevalence in individuals before and after COVID-19 infection against a non-infected control group.
- To investigate the long-term health implications of COVID-19 in Southeastern Brazil.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study utilizing virtual questionnaires administered to adults in Brazil.
- Data collection occurred between October 2023 and May 2024, including participants from the MonitoraCovid program.
- Analysis included 2886 eligible individuals, assessing symptom prevalence pre- and post-COVID-19 infection.
Main Results:
- Over 75% of participants reported a prior COVID-19 positive test; most were vaccinated.
- Individuals infected with COVID-19 reported worsening symptoms post-infection, with 95.5% of assessed conditions affected, particularly cognitive and respiratory issues.
- Key post-COVID-19 symptoms included memory problems, fatigue, and shortness of breath; anxiety and sleep disturbances were less prevalent in the infected group.
Conclusions:
- Long COVID significantly impacts cognitive health, underscoring the necessity of monitoring previously infected individuals.
- Further research in Global South contexts is vital to fully comprehend the long-term consequences of COVID-19.
- Findings emphasize the differential symptom presentation and the need for context-specific public health strategies.
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