Nealy 50% of African COVID-19 survivors suffer lingering symptoms that could have economic consequences

Studies have suggested that around 10–20% of people who are infected with SARS-CoV-2 will go on to develop such symptoms.
The scale of the burden is less clear in Africa because of a significant number of asymptomatic or undisclosed infections, and difficulties in accessing testing.
Experts note that ongoing symptoms could have economic consequences.

Experts note that ongoing symptoms, such as fatigue, are impacting people's quality of life and may hinder their ability to work, potentially leading to economic consequences.

In October 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) established a consensus definition for Long COVID, categorizing it as a condition persisting for at least two months in individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 at least three months prior.

Studies have suggested that around 10–20% of people who are infected with SARS-CoV-2 will go on to develop such symptoms, although many of these studies have been conducted in higher-income countries.

However, in low-income countries, many of which are in Africa, the scale of the burden is less clear because of a significant number of asymptomatic or undisclosed infections, and difficulties in accessing testing.

"Low- and middle-income countries do not generally have social safety nets, and the impact of chronic sequelae on the workforce and on families' livelihoods remain a concern. In these countries, health care systems need to also establish post-acute care services where physical, cognitive, and mental health disabilities will be recognised," Luisa Frallonardo, the research lead said.

Frallonardo and colleagues pooled the results of 25 studies from African countries that have reported on the incidence of various types of Long COVID symptoms, including a total of 29,213 participants.

The research found the incidence of any Long COVID symptoms was 48.6% with symptoms more common in older individuals and people who had been hospitalised. The researchers did not find that women were any more likely than men to report ongoing symptoms.

"Long COVID poses a significant burden in Africa, particularly concerning psychiatric conditions. The study recommends identifying at-risk people and defining treatment strategies and recommendations for African long-COVID patients," Frallonardo said.

Most reported symptoms

Fatigue was the most reported symptom, affecting 35.4% of study participants. Frequently debilitating, this is often the first reason patients seek medical assistance, the researchers said.

Also, up to a quarter of patients experienced mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety.

Cognitive impairment, difficulty concentrating and headaches affected 10–15% of participants, while 18% of them reported shortness of breath, and 11% experienced heart palpitations.

The researchers urged for additional studies to comprehend the long-term impact on quality of life and workforce activity, as well as the development of optimal therapeutic and prevention strategies for individuals in Africa.