MedScape Individuals with post-COVID condition reported lower work ability than those without the condition, with no meaningful change over the 3 years following infection; a higher proportion of those with post‑COVID condition experienced worsening physical and mental work performance.
METHODOLOGY:
Physical and mental work performance and COVID-related sick leave were assessed at 36 months post-infection.
Researchers analysed data of 667 individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection (median age, 43 years; 54.3% women) enrolled in a prospective population-based cohort in Switzerland to examine longitudinal changes in work ability and impaired work performance associated with post-COVID condition.
Post-COVID condition was assessed at 12 months using self-reported COVID-related symptoms and a combined measure of self-reported recovery and health status.
The primary outcome was self-perceived work ability, assessed using the Work Ability Index; higher scores indicated better ability to work, and assessments were conducted biannually from 12 months to 36 months post-infection.