Long COVID-19 and primary care: Challenges, management and recommendations

Abstract

Long COVID-19, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is characterized by persistent symptoms after COVID-19 onset. This article explores the challenges, management strategies, and recommendations for addressing long COVID-19 in primary care settings. The epidemiology of long COVID-19 reveals significant variability, with a substantial portion of COVID-19 survivors experiencing post-acute symptoms. Pathophysiological mechanisms include viral persistence, endothelial dysfunction, autoimmunity, neurological dysregulation, and gastrointestinal dysbiosis. Multiple risk factors, including age, sex, pre-existing comorbidities, smoking, BMI, and acute COVID-19 severity, influence the development of long COVID-19. Effective management requires proactive measures such as vaccination, identification of high-risk populations, public awareness, and post-infection vaccination. Collaboration of primary care physicians with specialists is essential for holistic and individualized patient care. This article underscores the role of primary care physicians in diagnosing, managing, and mitigating the long-term effects of COVID-19.