Post-Covid Syndrome, are we prepared?

Brazil and the world breathe in the hope of the imminent end of the pandemic, which is outlined by the increase in the number of vaccinated individuals alongside the reduction in the number of infections and deaths. There are strong indications that better days are ahead, but it is still necessary to take all precautions and guidelines since the beginning of the pandemic, as reported by pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist, Jéssica Polese.

“A group that few discuss and urgently needs attention refers to the 'cured' of COVID-19. Within this large group of cured individuals, there are sick people with a recently termed syndrome called Post-COVID Syndrome or Chronic COVID,” says the specialist. In an uncertain but still alarmingly growing number, there are individuals with sequelae or diseases caused by COVID that remain undiagnosed and without proper approach.

According to the doctor, the symptoms range from psychoneurological issues to debilitating physical symptoms causing enormous physical and mental suffering. “These individuals have complaints of anxiety, panic, sleep disturbances, and depressive symptoms, which are even worse in those individuals who required hospitalization or presented more severe cases,” she reports.

“The traumas of isolation, the loss of friends and family, worsen the scenario, leading to an increase in symptoms. The physical changes include cardiovascular, pulmonary, and muscular problems that are so intense and sometimes limiting,” explains Jéssica.

Studies clearly highlight the “Post-COVID Syndrome,” which exceeds the acute phase for more than six months. The pandemic has subjected healthcare systems worldwide to an overload in functioning, and now that the acute phase has passed, there has been no preparation for the survivors.

“These survivors fill the offices with various symptoms, which requires a new overcoming of the healthcare system and the entire chain involving public, private, and social assistance for the disabled,” she points out.

For Jéssica, “there needs to be an assertive direction aimed at reintegrating, diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating the so-called 'cured,' with multidisciplinary and active care, aimed at mitigating suffering, reducing secondary diseases to acute COVID - such as metabolic and cardiovascular diseases - in addition to adequate psychological and psychiatric support, with the goal of returning these individuals to work and society. This is the real starting point for Brazil's post-pandemic recovery.”