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Persistent Symptoms in SARS-CoV-2-Infected and Non-Infected Household Members: A Prospective Cohort Study
Angelique M A M Winkel1,2, Bastienne A de Jonghe1, Coen R Lap1,3
1Spaarne Gasthuis Academy, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands.
Journal of Medical Virology
|December 6, 2025
Summary
Adults infected with SARS-CoV-2 experienced more persistent respiratory symptoms, fatigue, and exertion issues six months post-infection. Children rarely reported long-term symptoms, but persistent issues in adults correlated with reduced quality of life and increased anxiety.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Non-hospitalized SARS-CoV-2 infections can lead to persistent symptoms, impacting individuals' health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
- Understanding the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 in different age groups is crucial for public health management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence, type, and consequences of persistent symptoms following non-hospitalized SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- To compare outcomes between infected and non-infected individuals within Dutch households.
Main Methods:
- Prospective household studies conducted during two pandemic phases.
- RT-PCR saliva testing for SARS-CoV-2 at baseline.
- Questionnaires assessing persistent symptoms, HRQoL, anxiety, and depressive symptoms at 6 and 12 months.
Main Results:
- Of 297 participants, 201 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2.
- At 6 months, only one child reported persistent symptoms.
- SARS-CoV-2-infected adults reported more pulmonary symptoms (15.2% vs. 3.4%), fatigue (12.8% vs. 3.4%), and exertion-related symptoms (8.8% vs. 1.7%) compared to non-infected adults.
- Persistent symptoms in adults were linked to decreased HRQoL and increased anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Conclusions:
- SARS-CoV-2-positive adults showed a higher prevalence of respiratory, fatigue, and exertion symptoms six months post-infection.
- Children rarely experienced persistent symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Persistent symptoms post-SARS-CoV-2 infection were associated with reduced HRQoL and increased psychological distress.
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