Clinical Spectrum and Outcomes of Post-COVID Syndrome Among Adults in Rural Kerala: A Cohort Study

This cohort study in rural Kerala examined post-COVID syndrome (PCS) among 596 adults, with 298 having confirmed COVID-19 infections. The study found a high incidence of PCS, with 91.9% of the COVID-19 group and 83.2% of the control group experiencing persistent symptoms at six months. Significant differences were observed in the six-minute walk distance and blood pressure between the groups, with the COVID-19 group showing more pronounced impairments. These findings indicate that PCS symptoms are common and may overlap with general community health issues, highlighting the need for further research to improve screening and long-term care strategies.