Top 5 Takeaways

1. Prevalence of Long-Term Symptoms: Approximately two-thirds of respondents with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test experienced long-term symptoms, compared to 42.9% of those with a negative test.
2. Common Long-Term Symptoms: Fatigue, changes in smell or taste, shortness of breath, cough, and headache were more prevalent among those who tested positive.
3. Healthcare Utilization: Those with positive test results were more likely to see healthcare professionals or visit urgent/emergency care for symptoms.
4. Impact of Vaccination: A higher proportion of respondents with positive test results believed that COVID-19 vaccination improved their long-term symptoms.
5. Demographic Differences: Positive test respondents were generally younger, more likely to be employed, have higher income, and live in urban areas compared to those with negative test results.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Valentine Wanga, qdy0@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Wanga V, Chevinsky JR, Dimitrov LV, et al. Long-Term Symptoms Among Adults Tested for SARS-CoV-2 — United States, January 2020–April 2021. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2021;70:1235–1241. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7036a1

Summary

This study examined the prevalence of long-term symptoms among U.S. adults who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 compared to those who tested negative. Using a nonprobability-based Internet panel survey, the study found that 65.9% of those who tested positive experienced long-term symptoms, compared to 42.9% of those who tested negative. Common symptoms included fatigue, changes in smell or taste, shortness of breath, cough, and headache. The study also explored healthcare utilization and the perceived impact of COVID-19 vaccination on long-term symptoms.

Methods

The study utilized a nonprobability-based Internet panel survey conducted by Porter Novelli Public Services and ENGINE Insights among 6,021 U.S. adults aged ≥18 years. Quota sampling and statistical weighting were used to align the sample with U.S. population distributions. Respondents self-reported their SARS-CoV-2 test results and symptoms. Point estimates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, and chi-square tests were used for comparisons.

Discussion

The findings indicate a higher prevalence of long-term symptoms among those who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. These symptoms often persisted for more than four weeks. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to recognize and manage post-COVID conditions effectively. It also suggests that COVID-19 vaccination may have a positive impact on long-term symptoms for some individuals.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of addressing long-term symptoms associated with COVID-19, including optimizing care and communication about the potential benefits of vaccination. Further research is needed to understand the full impact of long-term symptoms and to guide healthcare services for affected individuals.

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