Analysis of epidemiological characteristics and influencing factors of Long COVID syndrome among university students in the post-pandemic era

Abstract

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of Long COVID syndrome in university students during the post-pandemic era, providing evidence for developing prevention strategies and rehabilitation plans for COVID-19 patients. Methods A cohort study was conducted in November 2023, recruiting students from a university in Nanjing for baseline investigations. Demographic characteristics, vaccination history, infection history, and venous blood samples were collected to detect SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM antibody levels. For individuals with prior COVID-19 infections, Long COVID syndrome status was assessed 1 year post-infection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify influencing factors. Results The study included 246 participants (mean age: 21.88 ± 2.06 years; 65.04% female). Median SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM levels were 16.500 (105.000, 239.000) AU/ml and 0.095 (0.053, 0.183) AU/ml, respectively. Among 246 participants with prior COVID-19 infection, 82 (33.33%) developed Long COVID syndrome, with alopecia (36.59%), memory decline (28.05%), and sleep disturbances (28.05%) being the most prevalent symptoms. Multivariate analysis revealed that, compared to the non-Long COVID group, depressive symptoms may be positively associated with Long COVID syndrome (adjusted OR = 8.235, 95%CI: 3.478–19.500). Conclusion The incidence of Long COVID syndrome among university students is comparable to that of the general population. A bidirectional relationship may exist between depressive symptoms and Long COVID syndrome, warranting increased clinical and public health attention.