Long COVID and symptom persistence in post-discharge omicron patients: Insights into C-reactive protein

Abstract

Objectives

Long-term health effects of Omicron infection, particularly persistent Long COVID in hospitalized patients, require further investigation.

Methods

Patients hospitalized for Omicron infection (Dec 2022–Mar 2023) underwent follow-ups at 6 months and 1 year post-discharge. Univariate/multivariate analyses identified mortality predictors, symptom trends, and optimal CRP levels (mg/L) thresholds.

Results

Among 410 patients, 59 died; mortality predictors included age (OR = 1.070), ICU admission (OR = 15.748), diabetes (OR = 3.363), antibacterial use (OR = 0.283), and lymphocyte count (OR = 0.099). At 6 months, 86.0% reported ≥1 symptom (83.5% at 1 year). Fatigue, cough, and snoring were most common, with symptom counts decreasing significantly over time. Symptomatic patients had longer hospital stays (P = 0.022), lymphopenia (P = 0.036), and elevated CRP levels (P = 0.010). A CRP level ≥15.38 mg/L was associated with a greater risk of symptom persistence and may serve as a potential predictive marker.

Conclusion

Hospitalized Omicron survivors experience prolonged symptoms, with ICU admission, age, and diabetes as key mortality risks. Fatigue and snoring may persist despite overall improvement. Elevated CRP and prolonged hospitalization in symptomatic patients underscore the need for long-term monitoring and interventions targeting high-risk groups.