Post‐COVID‐19 Public Health Challenges: Insights Into Post‐COVID Symptoms, Stigma, and Post‐Pandemic Recovery Support From the Vietnam Experience

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objectives This study aimed to assess the burden of post‐COVID‐19 symptoms, social stigma, and quality of life, and to examine their interactions among individuals recovering from COVID‐19 in Vietnam. Methods A cross‐sectional survey was conducted from March to June 2022 among individuals who had recovered from COVID‐19 within 1–3 months prior. Participants completed a self‐administered questionnaire capturing demographic and baseline characteristics, health status during infection, post‐COVID symptoms, perceived social stigma using the five‐item COVID‐19 Perceived Discrimination Scale (C‐19‐PDS), and quality of life using the EQ‐5D‐5L. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between social stigma and perceived decline in quality of life. Results Among 764 participants, 55.4% were female, and 45.4% were under 30 years old. Most participants (81.3%) reported at least one of 27 post‐COVID‐19 symptoms, 27.5% experienced social stigma, and 38% reported a decline in quality of life. Perceived social stigma was significantly associated with reduced quality of life (adjusted OR = 1.81; 95% CI 1.20–2.73). Conclusions Post‐COVID symptoms and social stigma are common among COVID‐19 survivors, and social stigma significantly impacts post‐recovery quality of life. Comprehensive support from families, communities, and authorities is essential to promote full recovery and social integration.