Experiences of Canadians with long-term symptoms following COVID-19

OVERVIEW

Using data from the 2023 Canadian COVID-19 Antibody and Health Survey – Follow-up questionnaire (CCAHS-FQ), this article provides updated estimates on COVID-19 infections and reinfections among Canadian adults, and describes the nature of symptoms experienced as a result of infection. Results are compared to those from the Canadian COVID-19 Antibody and Health Survey – Cycle 2 (CCAHS-2), which was conducted in 2022, one year before CCAHS-FQ. This article also describes the experiences of Canadians who reported long-term symptoms consistent with post COVID-19 condition or long COVID, including the severity of symptoms, their experiences with the health care system, and the impact on their daily lives. Finally, this article also provides updates of the vaccination status of Canadian adults.

• As of June 2023, about two-thirds of Canadian adults reported at least one confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection, with many reporting more than one infection since the beginning of the pandemic.
• Multiple infections were more commonly reported among certain racialized groups; Black Canadians were most likely to report multiple infections compared to other racialized groups.
• About 3.5 million Canadian adults reported experiencing long-term symptoms following a COVID-19 infection; 2.1 million reported they were still experiencing those symptoms as of June 2023. Almost half of those still experiencing symptoms reported they have not seen any improvement in symptoms over time.
• Among Canadians who were in school or employed and dealing with long-term symptoms, more than 1 in 5 missed days of school or work, missing 24 days on average.
• About 40% of those with long-term symptoms who sought healthcare about their symptoms reported difficulties with access.
• Adults with chronic conditions and senior adults were more likely to have been vaccinated in the 6 months prior to June 2023.