New study links air pollution to increased risk of long Covid

People living in areas with higher air pollution face an increased risk of long Covid symptoms if infected, according to a study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal).

The study, conducted on 2,800 adults in Catalonia aged 40-65, found that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) heightened the likelihood of persistent symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive issues.

One in four Covid-19 patients experienced symptoms for three months or longer, while 5% reported symptoms lasting over two years. Researchers suggested air pollution exacerbates the severity of initial infections, raising the risk of prolonged symptoms.

Women, individuals with chronic conditions, and those with severe Covid-19 were most affected. Vaccination significantly reduced long Covid risk, with 15% of vaccinated participants developing symptoms compared to 46% of the unvaccinated.

The findings highlight the importance of reducing pollution and encouraging vaccination to mitigate long Covid risks.