P-270 POST COVID SYNDROME IN HEALTH CARE WORKERS

Abstract

Introduction Post COVID syndrome (PCS) is characterized by polymorphous symptoms of variable duration. The evolution of these symptoms remains unpredictable. Our aim is to assess the prevalence of PCS in healthcare workers (HCW) who have contracted COVID-19 and to study the evolution of persistent symptoms. Methods Cross-sectional descriptive study of HCW at Rabta Hospital who contracted COVID-19 between October 2020 and May 2021. Patients without symptoms when returning to work were not included. Data concerning PCS were collected by telephone contact in June 2021. Results Of the 200 patients included, 170 (85%) completed the questionnaire. Ninety HCW (52.9%) had developed PCS. The population was predominantly female (82.2%), with a mean age of 43.07±10.15 years. Persistent symptoms were mainly exertional dyspnea (33.3%), fatigue (28.9%), memory impairment (11.1%), palpitations (7.8%) and arthralgia (6.7%). A statistically significant relationship was found between the severe form and the onset of PCS (p=0.01). Progression was characterized by the persistence of at least one of the symptoms affecting 31 patients (38%). The persistent symptoms were mainly neuropsychological disorders (65%) requiring psychiatric treatment (29%), exertional dyspnea (61%) requiring pulmonary treatment (26%). Discussion Since the end of the first epidemic wave in May 2020, the persistence of symptoms several weeks or months after the first manifestations has been described in over 20% of patients after 5 weeks or more, and in over 10% of patients after 3 months. Despite the still-limited follow-up, the evolution is generally towards improvement. Conclusion Some patients with PCS should have access to multidisciplinary consultations for better management.