New study concludes that fully vaccinated people are less likely to suffer from long Covid
(Picture: PA Wire)People who are fully vaccinated against coronavirus are less likely to suffer from long Covid, according to a review.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) undertook a review of studies examining the effects of vaccination on long Covid which found that an estimated 2% of the UK population have reported symptoms.
The most common symptoms, which can last for more than four weeks after initial infection, include fatigue as well as shortness of breath and muscle or joint pain.
Eight of the studies reviewed examined the effect of vaccinations administered before infection.
Most of these studies indicate people vaccinated with either one or two doses were less likely to develop symptoms of long Covid following infection compared with unvaccinated people.
Head of immunisation at the UKHSA Dr Mary Ramsay said: “These studies add to the potential benefits of receiving a full course of the Covid-19 vaccination.
“Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from serious symptoms when you get infected and may also help to reduce the longer-term impact.”
Four studies comparing long Covid symptoms before and after vaccination concluded people who received a vaccination after being infected reported a shorter period of post-Covid symptoms than those who were unvaccinated.
NHS medical director Professor Stephen Powis said: “With more than 10,000 people in hospital with Covid, this study is a timely and important reminder that vaccines remain our best protection against the virus, reducing the chances of becoming seriously unwell as well as the effects of long Covid.
“The NHS vaccination programme has helped prevent over 100,000 hospitalisations since mid-December alone, and so the NHS is clear, when eligible book in for your vaccine without delay.”
