Prevalence of post-COVID syndrome among COVID-19 survivors in Iraqi society

Despite the significant reduction in mortality from COVID-19, it remains a global health challenge and concern. Reports indicate the persistence of a wide range of symptoms after recovery, known as long COVID syndrome (LCS). This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of LCS on some health indicators (physical and mental) affecting the quality of life in Iraqi communities. This cross-sectional study included 1036 participants from 18 provinces of Iraq. Information on demographic characteristics and identification of symptoms due to long COVID syndrome was collected using an electronic questionnaire translated into Arabic and Kurdish versions and shared via web-based platforms. The study findings show that persistent fatigue and exhaustion (n = 542), joint pain (n = 404), hair loss (n = 391), and loss or weakness of the sense of smell and taste (n = 358) were the most common complaints recorded by the participants. There was a significant relationship between some symptoms caused by LCS, such as persistent fatigue and exhaustion, sleep problems, and depression, and parameters related to daily life, such as mental and physical activities, and occupational and educational status (p < 0.001). Examination of risk factors based on multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that infection severity and smoking were associated with a much higher likelihood of long-term symptoms than other risk factors (p < 0.001). Based on the findings, the overall prevalence of long COVID syndrome was reported to be 60%, which is noteworthy. Given the lack of understanding of the pathogenesis of many symptoms caused by the long COVID syndrome, adopting approaches to follow-up and support for recovered patients, as well as implementing surveillance programs, can help in prevention and treatment for vulnerable individuals.