Silke Mayr A new study shows most young people no longer experience symptoms of COVID-19 two years after testing positive.
Researchers wanted to understand why some people still have persistent symptoms long after their initial COVID-19 infection. They focused on teens and their experiences months after recovery.
The study surveyed over 12,600 teenagers in England, aged 11 to 17. They were questioned about COVID-19 symptoms three, six, 12, and 24 months after testing positive between September 2020 and March 2021.
Key Findings from the Study
Researchers defined long COVID, or post-COVID-19 condition, as having symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or headaches. These symptoms included challenges related to mobility, self-care, or emotional well-being.
Nearly 1,000 teens reported symptoms at all four time points. Researchers found:
- Three months after testing positive, about 25% fit the definition of long COVID.
- A year later, this number decreased to 10%.
- After two years, only 7% still fit the criteria.
In total, 68 teenagers continued to have symptoms two years after their initial positive test. These symptoms included tiredness, trouble sleeping, shortness of breath, and headaches.
Sir Terence Stephenson, the study’s chief investigator, said, “Most teenagers recover after two years. However, we are investigating why some have not.”
Females were nearly twice as likely to have long COVID as males. Older teens and those in deprived areas also had lower chances of recovery.
The study highlighted that long COVID persists in some individuals. Ziyad Al-Aly from VA St Louis Health Care System stated this aligns with findings in adults. He added the condition needs further study, especially in children and young adults.
Dr. Nathan Cheetham from King’s College London stressed that long COVID affects the most disadvantaged groups. He said underlying causes like poor housing and unequal healthcare access should be addressed.
Experts agree that further research is essential. Studies must focus on the impacts of long COVID on children’s development, education, and long-term health.