Long-term COVID-19 Symptoms Prevalent Among Healthcare Workers in Qatar

Strategic Insights -

A recent study has shed light on the significant burden of long-term COVID-19 symptoms on healthcare workers in Qatar. The research, conducted by the Hamad Medical Corporation, found that three-quarters of respondents reported experiencing symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection, with fatigue being the most common symptom. The study also highlighted gender disparities, with females experiencing a higher incidence of symptoms. Furthermore, the research identified associations between a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, a psychiatric history, symptoms of depression, and the development of multiple long COVID-19 symptoms.

Key Takeaways:

  • 75% of healthcare workers in Qatar reported experiencing long-term symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection, with fatigue being the most common symptom.
  • Females experienced a higher incidence of symptoms compared to males.
  • A history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, a psychiatric history, and symptoms of depression were significantly associated with the development of multiple long COVID-19 symptoms.
  • The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to support healthcare workers, particularly those at greater risk of adverse outcomes.
  • Implementing access to mental health resources, structured follow-up, and workplace accommodation is critical to maintaining a resilient healthcare workforce.
  • The research highlights the importance of addressing long COVID-19 symptoms among healthcare workers in maintaining a healthy and productive workforce.

Statistics:

  • 783 complete responses were received from the survey, which exceeded the minimum required sample size.
  • 75% of respondents reported experiencing long-term symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • 33% of respondents reported experiencing more than three symptoms.
  • The study was conducted among healthcare workers aged 18 years or older, including physicians, nurses, allied healthcare professionals, and administrative staff.

Sources:

  • Long-term symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection in a cohort of healthcare workers in Qatar. BMC Infectious Diseases, 2025,25(1):1-14.
  • NewsRx. Hamad Medical Corporation Researchers Describe Findings in COVID-19 (Long-term symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection in a cohort of healthcare workers in Qatar). Medical Letter on the CDC & FDA. November 2, 2025; p 343.