Determinants of Post-COVID Ill-Health in a Cohort of Canadian Healthcare Workers (January 2025)-Determinants of Post-COVID Ill-Health in a Cohort of Canadian Healthcare Workers

Determinants of Post-COVID Ill-Health in a Cohort of Canadian Healthcare Workers

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The study, conducted by Tanis Zadunayski and colleagues, aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of post-COVID conditions (PCCs) among Canadian healthcare workers (HCWs). Utilizing a cohort of 4,964 HCWs who were surveyed four times during the pandemic, the research identified that 27% of the 995 participants who had tested positive for COVID-19 at least 90 days before the final survey developed PCCs. Symptoms primarily included fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive difficulties.<br /><br />Key risk factors identified for developing PCCs included preexisting mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, increased alcohol consumption post-infection, and the belief that the infection was work-related. Obesity and other chronic health issues also appeared to contribute to a higher risk. The study found that vaccination was associated with a reduced likelihood of PCC, with a higher number of doses correlating with lower risk. <br /><br />Among the healthcare roles, licensed practical nurses exhibited the highest prevalence of PCCs, suggesting that job-related stress or conditions could influence outcomes. Additionally, most conditions reported were mild, with only 8% of the affected workers experiencing severe symptoms.<br /><br />The research highlights the complexity of PCC, especially in a high-risk category such as healthcare workers. It underscores the importance of vaccinations and recognizes the need for pre-existing health condition management and improved workplace conditions and support to mitigate PCC risks. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing targeted interventions and support systems for HCWs, ensuring their well-being and maintaining healthcare service delivery during and subsequent to pandemic conditions.

Keywords

post-COVID conditions

Canadian healthcare workers

PCC prevalence

risk factors

vaccination impact

mental health

licensed practical nurses

workplace conditions

COVID-19 symptoms

healthcare interventions