Burden of respiratory morbidity amongst survivors of COVID-19 infection in Lagos, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

<b>Background</b>: COVID-19 disease is associated with long-term effects in some survivors. There exists dearth of information about the burden of respiratory morbidity among COVID-19 survivors in Nigeria. This study was designed to identify the common respiratory symptoms of long COVID-19 to educate and increase index of suspicion of healthcare practitioners caring for such patient for optimal care.<br /> <b>Material and methods</b>: This is a cross-sectional survey that took place at the adult pulmonology clinic of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital Ikeja. The individuals who were treated for PCR confirmed COVID-19 infection referred for unresolved symptoms 4 weeks following discharge that consented were recruited. A proforma was used to obtain information on socio-demographic characteristics, medical history, and comorbidities. The degree of dyspnea was assessed using MRC(Medical Research Council) dyspnea scale while the functional capacity of patients was assessed using Six-minute walk test (6mwt). The analysis of the data collected was done using descriptive statistics, and chi-square was used to test for association.<br /> <b>Results</b>: Ninety-four subjects participated. The mean age of participants was 49.48±17.8 years, with male: female ratio of 1:1.1. The median duration of admission due to COVID-19 infection was 10.0 (7.0-15.8) days. The common symptoms were fatigue (85.1%), loss of smell (71.3%), dyspnea 53(56.4%), and Cough (62.8%). Dyspnea was present in 62.8% using the MRC dyspnea scale, while the 6-meter walk test showed inadequate functional capacity in 61.7%, and both showed significant association. (X<sup>2</sup>=18.606, P=0.001*)<br /> <b>Conclusion</b>: Respiratory morbidity remains a significant post covid condition. There is a need to raise awareness amongst healthcare workers, particularly within the primary healthcare setting for early identification and referral of COVID-19 survivors with prolonged respiratory symptoms to pulmonology clinics for optimal care. There is also a need for further research on predictors of post COVID syndrome and treatment modalities.