Prevalence of Long COVID in Liberty University College Students

Long COVID is a newly observed set of symptoms lasting for an extended period after a COVID-19 diagnosis. As such, the public health community is examining the long-term effects of COVID, especially in otherwise healthy communities like college-aged students. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Long COVID symptoms in Liberty University’s residential population. Knowing the prevalence of Long COVID can determine the relationship between symptoms and impairment, which leads to better treatment protocols, improved accommodations for students, and further research into the lasting effects. The data were collected through an online survey, and the patterns of symptoms, vaccination, and the long-term effects of COVID-19 were coded and analyzed using Excel. A total of 97 students were included with the majority being female (70.1%) and between the ages of 18 and 21 (80.2%). Racial demographics included White (66.0%), Asian (13.4%) and Black or African American (7.2%) students. Long COVID symptoms were prevalent among respondents, with tiredness/fatigue (70.9%) and cough (70.4%) being the most reported. Additional symptoms included headaches, body aches, chills, changes in taste, difficulty breathing/shortness of breath, muscle weakness, dizziness on standing, and brain fog. Ultimately, these findings highlight the ongoing impact of Long COVID in a young, active population, with potential implications for academic performance, mental health, and healthcare resource allocation. Given these challenges, efforts to develop appropriate interventions and provide support for students are crucial to navigating these health concerns. Future research at Liberty University will further explore the lasting effects of Long COVID on college students, focusing on cognitive impairment, academic performance, and overall well-being.