Long-Term Symptom Profiles After COVID-19 vs Other Acute Respiratory Infections: A Population-Based Observational Study (COVIDENCE UK)

This study, involving 10,203 participants, compared long-term symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infections with non-COVID-19 acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and controls. It found that both SARS-CoV-2 and non-COVID-19 ARIs are linked to a wide range of long-term symptoms and decreased health-related quality of life. SARS-CoV-2 infections were more likely to cause taste/smell problems, hair loss, memory issues, and concentration difficulties than non-COVID-19 ARIs. The study suggests that post-acute sequelae research should include other pathogens beyond SARS-CoV-2, as non-COVID-19 ARIs also show significant symptom burdens that are often unrecognized.