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A recent study conducted by Queen Mary University of London, featured in The Lancet’s EClinicalMedicine, suggests that individuals may experience persistent symptoms, often referred to as ‘long colds’, following acute respiratory infections that tested negative for COVID-19. These enduring symptoms, which include coughing, stomach pain, and diarrhea persisting for over four weeks after the initial infection, are more likely to occur in cases of severe illness. Further research is underway to understand why some individuals are susceptible to prolonged symptoms while others are not. This discovery indicates that there may be unnoticed, lasting health consequences following non-COVID acute respiratory infections like the common cold, influenza, or pneumonia. However, it’s important to note that there isn’t yet evidence indicating whether these symptoms are as severe or persistent as those associated with long Covid.
The research, funded by Barts Charity, compared the prevalence and severity of long-term symptoms after COVID-19 and after other acute respiratory infections that tested negative for COVID-19. Those recovering from COVID-19 were more likely to experience symptoms such as light-headedness or dizziness, and issues with taste and smell, in comparison to individuals with non-COVID-19 respiratory infections.
While long Covid is now recognized as a medical condition, there have been limited studies comparing the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection with other respiratory infections. This study is part of COVIDENCE UK, a national research initiative launched by Queen Mary University of London in 2020 to study COVID-19, which continues to follow up with over 19,000 participants. The study analyzed data from 10,171 UK adults through questionnaires and statistical analysis to identify patterns of symptoms.
Giulia Vivaldi, a researcher on COVIDENCE UK from Queen Mary University of London and the lead author of the study, emphasized, “Our findings shed light not only on the impact of long Covid but also on other respiratory infections. The lack of awareness, and even a common term, hinders both the reporting and diagnosis of these conditions.” As research on long Covid progresses, it’s crucial to investigate and understand the enduring effects of other acute respiratory infections.
“Long” infections are particularly challenging to diagnose and treat due to a lack of specific diagnostic tests and the wide array of possible symptoms, with over 200 investigated for long Covid alone. Professor Adrian Martineau, Chief Investigator of COVIDENCE UK and Clinical Professor of Respiratory Infection and Immunity at Queen Mary University of London, remarked, “Our findings may resonate with those who have grappled with prolonged symptoms following a respiratory infection despite testing negative for COVID-19 on a nasal or throat swab. Continued research into the long-term effects of COVID-19 and other acute respiratory infections is crucial in understanding why some individuals experience prolonged symptoms while others do not. Ultimately, this knowledge could guide us in identifying the most appropriate form of treatment and care for affected individuals.”
Victoria King, Director of Funding and Impact at Barts Charity, stated, “Barts Charity promptly supported COVIDENCE UK in response to the emergence of COVID-19 to help inform its risk factors and impacts. These findings not only highlight the enduring symptoms experienced by individuals after a Covid infection but also after other acute respiratory infections. As we gain more insight into long Covid symptoms and potential treatments, studies like this raise awareness about other protracted respiratory infections that may be overlooked.”
