Symptoms, risk factors, and health outcomes of long COVID in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

Long COVID is an ongoing public health challenge. This study aimed to examine Long COVID in previously hospitalized COVID patients in the UAE, determine associated risk factors, and evaluate its influence on self-perceived health. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using medical records and in-depth telephone interviews with adult patients hospitalized for COVID-19 between January 2020 and October 2021. Hospitalization was primarily for COVID-19 illness, although early admissions also included quarantine or surveillance during the initial phase of the pandemic. All patients provided informed consent. The study assessed clinical predictors of Long COVID and its impact on patients’ daily lives. Long COVID was identified in approximately 49% of the 533 participants, with 43 distinct manifestations. Female sex, the number of initial symptoms, the need for intensive care during hospitalization, and having two or more comorbidities were associated with an increased risk of long COVID. It was also strongly linked to worsened self-rated health and overall poorer perceived health, as well as significant limitations in work functioning due to both physical and emotional difficulties. These findings highlight the need for structured post-acute follow-up and targeted support for higher-risk groups to mitigate the long-term clinical and public health burden of COVID-19.