New long COVID study reignites conversation about condition

A new study found that 7 percent of U.S. adults have had long COVID. Among its findings, the study discovered that women were more likely to report having long COVID and that adults who had received a COVID-19 booster had lower rates of the condition compared to people who had only received the COVID-19 vaccine’s primary series. Following the study’s publication, social media users discussed its findings and emphasized the importance of vaccination to reduce the risk of long COVID. 

Recommendation: Social media posts about this study may prompt patient questions about long COVID. Continuing to reiterate that long COVID is a debilitating condition that can be prevented is recommended. Messaging may emphasize that one in ten people develop long COVID after a COVID-19 infection and that repeat infections increase the risk of developing long-term symptoms. Avoiding getting infected with COVID-19 by wearing a high-quality, well-fitting mask around others, improving ventilation at indoor gatherings, opting for outdoor gatherings when possible, and staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines is recommended. Additional messaging may emphasize that staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines dramatically lowers long COVID risk.