Virginia Department of Health begins Long COVID study in rural Southwest Virginia

The Central Virginia Health District began a Long COVID surveillance project in October that is now available to all residents of Southwest Virginia.

Long COVID is when a person is still sick two or more months after getting COVID-19. Symptoms can include trouble breathing, a cough, feeling weak and tired and problems with certain organs, such as the heart, brain or lungs.

The purpose of the study is to improve the understanding of how Long COVID affects the residents of rural Virginia, assess the quality of support participants have received and identify Long COVID resource needs.

Study criteria

To participate in the study, you must meet the following criteria:

• Had COVID-19 at least once
• A diagnosis of Long COVID is not required to participate
• Experienced symptoms lasting at least two months after a COVID infection
• Must be a resident of one of the following health districts: Roanoke City and Alleghany, Central Virginia, Cumberland Plateau, LENOWISCO, Mount Rogers, New River, Pittsylvania-Danville, Southside or West Piedmont

The study

• If you meet the qualifications and would like to enroll, go to  https://redcap.link/virginialongcovidstudy
• The health district will make contact, review consent and complete a phone interview.
• Individuals will then be asked to participate in follow-up interviews in three and six months after the initial interview.

Findings from the study will be submitted for future publication and presentation to the scientific community and made available at CVHD.org.