Assessment of Post-COVID-19 Complications in the Pakistani Population: A Detailed Survey into Late-Onset Adverse Events through Cross-Sectional Analysis

COVID-19 was a health crisis that severely obstructed the healthcare system and public well-being. Although vaccination has been very instrumental in reducing mortality and morbidity due to COVID-19, concerns are still prevalent regarding its short- and long-term side effects. Objectives: To investigate the incidence and severity of the pandemic, which vary considerably across different demographic groups, especially in older age. Methods: The current descriptive exploratory study examines post-vaccination effects among various age and gender groups in Pakistan through an online survey of 220 individuals. Results: Nearly 24% of respondents have suffered from COVID-19 during the pandemic, with a high prevalence in older age. A vast majority, i.e., 92% were vaccinated for COVID-19. Results show that 47 percent of respondents have been affected by one or more kinds of post-vaccination effects. Segregating results, 28 percent faced neurological effects, 16% cardiovascular effects, 11% bleeding complications, 11% gastrointestinal effects, and 18% allergic reactions. Among female, 22% reported menstrual changes after receiving the vaccination for COVID-19. Two deaths were also reported among the respondents temporally following vaccination; however, the small number and the study design preclude any causal inference with multiple post-vaccination effects. Conclusions: Pre-existing health conditions, experiencing surgery, and growing age were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of reporting post-vaccination complications. This study plays an important part in tailoring future vaccination approaches and plans, eventually assisting Pakistan’s long-term public health preparedness.