Respiratory symptom patterns in healthcare workers in Germany: a prospective study during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Healthcare professionals (HCPs) faced unique exposure risks during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. This study investigated the prevalence and patterns of respiratory symptoms among HCPs, examining potential demographic, occupational, and vaccination-related risk factors during the early pandemic period.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, 1,300 HCPs at a German academic medical center completed surveys about respiratory symptoms between March 2020 and April 2024. Participants reported five specific respiratory symptoms (cough, fever, dyspnea, sore throat, and impairment of taste/smell) and rated their intensity. These symptoms were grouped into one variable acute respiratory tract symptoms (ARS). Demographic and occupational data were collected at bas

SUBMITTER: Pink I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12833979 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature