Over one million Hong Kong residents have infected with COVID-19, some of whom are still suffering from various "post-COVID symptoms" (Long COVID) after recovery. According to the World Health Organization, post COVID-19 condition occurs in individuals with a history of probable or confirmed infection, usually 3 months from the onset of COVID-19 with symptoms that last for at least 2 months and cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis, and this situation may also occur in asymptomatic patients.
Common Long COVID symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, changes in olfaction and cognitive dysfunction, and generally have an impact on patients' daily function.
The cause of post-COVID symptoms is still not completely understood. However, research reflected that vaccination is effective in preventing Long COVID symptoms. According to an Italian study, 42% of unvaccinated individuals developed Long COVID symptoms; conversely, the percentage among individuals who completed three doses of vaccine is 16%.
The same study also revealed that the risk of having post-COVID symptoms is higher among the elderly and obese individuals. Hence, it is effective to prevent Long COVID by obtaining the three doses of vaccine as soon as possible, and controlling body weight, such as having a balanced diet and more exercise.
As public concern on Long COVID escalates, more products claiming to prevent or treat Long COVID symptoms are marketed on the market, including supplements that contain Chinese medicine herbs, chicken essence, and probiotics. However, optimal treatment strategy of Long COVID is still underdeveloped, and these products may also cause side effects or even reduce the effectiveness of other drugs or be harmful to the body. Therefore, it is suggested to consult a doctor or a pharmacist for professional advice before consuming those products.
The public can now learn more about post-COVID symptoms by attending the collaborative campaign of CommunityHealth@CIHE and the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Hong Kong, entitled "Health Check and Consultation Day – post-COVID Symptoms". Free health checks and counselling will be provided, including BMI and body fat percentage calculation, blood pressure and blood glucose measurements, bone mass measurement, macular degeneration test, diabetes risk assessment and dispensing consultation. A talk on prevention and treatment of post-COVID symptoms will also be delivered by the representative of the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Hong Kong.
Details of the event are as follows:
Date: 27 August 2022 (Saturday)
Time: 10:00 am – 3:30 pm (Talk session: 12:00 nn)
Venue: 2/F, CIHE, 2 Chui Ling Lane, Tseung Kwan O (Exit B, Tiu Keng Leng MTR Station)
Attendants should fulfill Vaccine Pass requirements. For more event information, please visit:
https://www.facebook.com/ch.cihe. Registration hotline: 9685 1037 (phone call or whatsapp)
