Work

The association between COVID-19 vaccination with the prevalence of post-COVID conditions in Thai patients with mild COVID-19

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Post-COVID conditions (PCC) have been reported in nearly half of individuals recovering from SARS-CoV-2 infection and are characterized by persistent symptoms, including fatigue, respiratory complaints, and reduced exercise capacity. While vaccines are known to reduce severe COVID-19, their potential to mitigate long-term complications remains less understood. Current studies often focus on severe COVID-19 cases, leaving a gap in understanding the benefits of vaccination in milder cases. This study investigated the association between mRNA vaccination and PCC risk, explored PCC prevalence and characteristics, and assessed potential risk factors in patients with mild COVID-19. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital from February to December 2023. Among 293 enrolled patients, 288 were included in the final analysis after excluding those lost to follow-up. PCC symptoms were assessed via structured interviews at 4-6 and 12-14 weeks post-diagnosis. Vaccination status was categorized as having received at least one dose of mRNA vaccine or no mRNA vaccine. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate PCC risk factors. RESULTS: The prevalence of PCC was 47.6 %, with cough (67.9 %) and reduced exercise capacity (21.2 %) being the most common symptoms. Patients who received at least one mRNA vaccine dose were significantly less likely to develop PCC compared to unvaccinated individuals (43.5 % vs. 67.3 %; OR 0.37, 95 % CI 0.20-0.71). The strongest protective effect was observed in those receiving three doses (OR 0.27, 95 % CI 0.12-0.64). No significant associations were found for age, sex, or comorbidities. CONCLUSION: mRNA vaccination was associated with a reduced risk of PCC. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of mRNA vaccines in addressing long-term outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with mild disease.

Source: Vaccine

DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.128060

Authors: Saikhuan Towachiraporn, Harit Thongwitokomarn, Parichat Salee

Institution: Chiang Mai University

Language: English

Topic: Long-Term Effects of COVID-19

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,620