664. Attitudes about COVID and Community Engagement with Patients (ACCEPt): Global Survey Reveals the Ongoing Impact of Long COVID-19 on Medically Vulnerable Populations, Five Years On

TL;DR

A global survey shows that over 20% of medically vulnerable individuals still experience long-term effects from COVID-19, often without adequate support or diagnosis.

Contribution

This study provides new global insights into the ongoing impact of Long COVID on medically vulnerable populations and highlights gaps in care and support.

Findings

20.8% of respondents reported Long COVID symptoms, with 42.1% enduring symptoms for over a year.

Most respondents with Long COVID reported significant daily life impact and worsened physical and mental health.

Only 48.3% of those with Long COVID symptoms were diagnosed, and many received limited support from caregivers and healthcare providers.

Abstract

COVID-19 continues to disproportionately impact medically vulnerable populations. To assess COVID-19’s ongoing burden on these individuals and address data gaps in post-pandemic care, the COVID Community Council (The Council), eight global representatives from medically vulnerable patient organizations, co-created the ‘Attitudes about COVID and Community Engagement with Patients’ (ACCEPt) survey.

Comparison of survey responses between baseline and Long COVID populations

Comparison of survey responses between baseline and Long COVID populations

Prevalence of reported Long COVID symptoms among respondents (n=520)

Prevalence of reported Long COVID symptoms among respondents (n=520)

The survey included adults with risk factors for progression to severe COVID-19 and self-reported COVID-19 diagnosis since January 2022 (irrespective of previous diagnoses) from the United States, Spain, Germany, Australia, and Canada. The 41-question online survey assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices across several domains, including Long COVID symptoms (defined here as persistent symptoms lasting for >3 months). Self-reported responses were analyzed using descriptive summary statistics.

Correlation between Long COVID symptom impact on daily life and self-reported general health (n=520)

Correlation between Long COVID symptom impact on daily life and self-reported general health (n=520)

Reported duration of Long COVID symptoms by number of respondents (n=520)

Reported duration of Long COVID symptoms by number of respondents (n=520)

Of 2500 respondents, 20.8% reported Long COVID symptoms, of whom 42.1% endured symptoms >1 year and 22.9% for >2 years. Of those with Long COVID symptoms, most (90.0%) reported moderate to significant impact on daily life, with 85.4% and 67.7% agreeing that COVID-19 had worsened their physical and mental health, respectively. All respondents in “very bad” general health noted a significant daily impact vs 33.3% in "very good" health. While most were vaccinated against COVID-19 (92.7%), 29.3% had not received a vaccine dose in >2 years. Despite meeting survey inclusion criteria for risk factors for severe COVID-19, 31.9% did not consider themselves high-risk. 62.9% were not offered antiviral treatment during their most recent acute COVID-19 illness. Only 48.3% of those with Long COVID symptoms were diagnosed with Long COVID, and many (44.8%) received less than moderate support from friends, family, and caregivers. Further, of the 76.9% who consulted a healthcare provider (HCP), 41.3% noted receiving less than moderate support.

Over 1 in 5 medically vulnerable individuals globally face ongoing effects of COVID-19, often with limited support. Self-reported findings from respondents of this survey highlight the urgent need for improved HCP education and support systems for Long COVID in these populations.

All Authors: No reported disclosures

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