Validation of a Questionnaire on the Post-COVID-19 Condition (Long COVID): A Cross-Sectional Study in Italy.

Abstract

Background/objectives: Long COVID is a condition that was initially recognized by social support groups, and later by the scientific and medical communities. It affects COVID-19 survivors at various levels of severity, including young people, children and non-hospitalized people. Although the exact definition is unclear, the most common symptoms are fatigue and shortness of breath, which persist for months. Other symptoms include cognitive impairment, pain, palpitations, and gastrointestinal and heart problems. This study evaluated the reliability and validity of a questionnaire designed to examine the development and effects of long COVID.

Methods: A questionnaire, composed of three sections, with a total of 24 items, was administered to subjects who had recovered from the COVID-19 disease in Italy. Data were collected from February to April 2025, and a statistical analysis was performed using R^® statistical software for Windows, version 4.3.3. Cronbach's alpha was tested to check internal consistency. The questionnaire was completed voluntarily and anonymously by 250 individuals who had recovered from the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The questionnaire was self-administered and had open and structured questions.

Results: The highest value of Cronbach's alpha was found on 18 items (alpha = 0.97), which means that the questionnaire has satisfactory internal validity.

Conclusions: This study highlights and confirms the continuity of symptoms manifested during the acute phase of the SARS-CoV-2 infection in the post-COVID-19 phase and the significant impact of these symptoms on daily life activities. Given its excellent reliability properties and high internal consistency, the instrument is recommended for future longitudinal studies and with large cohorts in order to carry out valid and replicable measurements of COVID-19 symptomatology.