What interventions or best practice are there to support people with Long COVID, or similar post-viral conditions or conditions characterised by fatigue, to return to normal activities: a rapid review

Background

Long COVID can significantly impact on people’s quality of life and usual daily activities. This rapid review looks at interventions that may help people who have been diagnosed with Long COVID, to return to their normal activities of daily living, which might include training, education, work, or caring responsibilities. 

Aim

The aim of this study is to review published research to identify best practice measures that could support people living with Long COVID to return to their normal daily activities. The findings of this study will be shared with Welsh Government policy makers and advisors to inform planning and service delivery for people suffering with Long COVID.

Methods

The study team looked at previous research, and found 12 common symptoms of Long COVID, including fever, myalgia (muscle aches and pains), fatigue and impaired cognitive function (e.g. trouble remembering, learning new things, concentrating, or making decisions that affect their everyday life).

They found that treatments for other similar conditions may help people living with or recovering from Long COVID. 

The researchers looked at a range of relevant literature, published between 2014 and 2022.

Results

Overall, the different sources of information indicated that a needs-based approach to care for people experiencing Long COVID should be taken. Suggestions also include the need for people living with Long COVID to be accommodated in the workplace in the same way as people with disabilities.

There is some evidence to suggest that non-medication related interventions for Long COVID or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) may help improve quality of life, but more research in this area would be needed to support this theory.

Long COVID fatigue can be managed in a number of ways, including exercise therapy, electrical nerve stimulation, and sleep and touch therapy. Writing behavioural self-management plans may be beneficial, especially when professional support is provided or delivered in groups.

One study investigated the benefits of a written self-management plan featuring active coping  strategies for CFS in daily life. Following this intervention there was an 18% increase in the number of patients returning to employment having suffered with the condition.

Impact

The results of this review may help to prioritise future specific areas surrounding Long COVID management and recovery.

Important solutions to consider include patient-centred treatment options (such as occupational, self-management and talking therapies). Return-to-work accommodations and adjustments are needed for all workers still experiencing symptoms.

Read the full report.

Summary author: Alexandra Strong