KUALA LUMPUR – A potentially high number of recovered coronavirus patients may experience “post-Covid syndrome”, said Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, as more light is shed on the complications experienced even after one is cleared of the initial infection.
The long-term health impact of the disease remains unclear.
In a statement today, the health director-general said based on a clinical study conducted by the ministry involving 1,004 Categories 4 and 5 patients – those who suffer severe symptoms – 66% were found to experience the said syndrome, also known as “long Covid”, following recovery.
It is not certain whether those in Categories 1 to 3 will face similar complications.
Among the reported symptoms are fatigue, exertional dyspnea, insomnia, cough and anxiety.
“This syndrome is a situation where former patients continue to experience symptoms for 12 weeks or more, which cannot be explained by any differential diagnosis,” said Dr Noor Hisham.
“This is caused by Covid-19 complications to the various human organs.”
While the majority of patients will make a complete recovery, he said, there will be cases of people experiencing long Covid.
At present, he said, the treatments offered are for symptomatic relief, adding that patients will be referred to specialists.
“As such, patients who have been discharged are given follow-up appointments.
“For those who still exhibit symptoms, they are urged to get medical advice and treatment.
“This is important to maintain the best health of those who got infected, and to avoid any future long-term effects.”
He said clinical trials will continue to better understand and identify the syndrome’s effects.
“The public will be updated on this from time to time.” – The Vibes, June 11, 2021
