Characterization of the Post-COVID condition in people over 18 years of age in a community from Honduras

Abstract

Introduction: The exact magnitude of Post-COVID condition is unknown, different studies have reported percentages between 20-90% in patients with COVID-19. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics and factors associated with Post-COVID condition in people aged ≥ 18 years in March-April 2023, Jacaleapa, El Paraíso, Honduras. Methods: Cross-sectional analytical study with probabilistic sampling, selecting a maximum of two people, with respective inclusion/exclusion criteria. A questionnaire was used for socio-demographic and clinical characterization, as well as for background information. Physical activity was assessed using the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) 2021. Univariate and bivariate analysis was performed using multivariate logistic regression (p-value<0.05 and 95%CI was significant). Approval or the Ethical Committee was obtained. Results: Sample of 334 persons, 63.8% (213) were women, median age 47 years (RIQ 25%,75%=34.65), 44.9% (150) had comorbidities, highlighting hypertension with 34.4% (115); 60.2% (201) were sedentary. COVID-19 prevalence was 31.1% (104/334), with mild severity in 80.8% (84), 57.7% (60/104) developed Post-COVID condition. Of these 81.7% (49/60) had fatigue, 46.7% (28/60) were hypertensive, and 86.7% (52/60) had mild COVID-19. An association was found between Post-COVID condition and hypertension (OR=4.7, 95%CI 1.3-7.5), COVID-19 severity grade: mild (OR=29.6, 95%CI 3.0-289.0) and moderate-severe (OR=86.1, 95%CI 3.7-2017.2). Discussion: The magnitude of Post-COVID condition was high, showing association with hypertension and mild/moderate-severe COVID-19 severity compared to asymptomatic. Every patient recovering from COVID-19 should have a comprehensive multidisciplinary follow-up to achieve recovery.