A recent study published by The BMJ reveals that the risk of developing long Covid is four times higher among unvaccinated individuals compared to those vaccinated before infections. The research, conducted by the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, emphasizes the significance of primary Covid-19 vaccination in reducing post-Covid conditions.
The study, involving 589,722 adults, observed individuals from their first Covid infection until the occurrence of Long Covid, vaccination, reinfection, or the end of the follow-up period. Vaccinated individuals had a 58% lower likelihood of developing post-Covid conditions, with vaccine effectiveness increasing with each successive dose before infection.
Despite being an observational study with limitations, such as incomplete data on symptoms and unvalidated diagnosis codes, the findings align with other research, highlighting the link between the immune system and post-viral conditions. In a linked editorial, researchers stress the need for ongoing investigations into long-term residual symptoms and improved accuracy in recording recovery and continued illness.
They advocate for increased funding for research and specialist clinical services to support patients with post-viral conditions. These insights underscore the crucial role of timely vaccination in pandemics and the potential to mitigate the burden of post-Covid conditions in the population.
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