Impact of COVID 19 Vaccination on Long COVID Symptoms in Ecuador a Nationwide Cross Sectional Study

Background: Long COVID is a growing concern, necessitating preventive strategies like vaccination. This study seeks to expand the existing research on the long-term consequences of COVID-19, focusing specifically on how vaccination status affects both the occurrence and intensity of long COVID symptoms in Ecuador. Methods: This study was carried as a quantitative design with analytical and cross-sectional approach out applying an independent online questionnaire focused on identifying key points that are relevant in relation to long COVID symptoms and its association to COVID-19 vaccination status in adult Ecuadorians. Descriptive analyses, bivariate and multivariable statistical methods were used to examine the association between the presence of long COVID symptoms and COVID-19 vaccination status. Results: Reports from a total of 202 participants show that the logistic regression analysis identified vaccination as a protective factor against long COVID, while age and health-related characteristics such as the severity of the initial COVID-19 infection were identified as potential risk factors. Age group 40-49 had the highest odds of developing long COVID, suggesting that middle-aged individuals may be particularly vulnerable to long-term effects of COVID-19. Conclusions: The findings support public health initiatives aimed at promoting vaccination as a critical tool not only to prevent acute COVID-19 but also to mitigate its long-term health consequences. Future studies should continue to explore other risk factors and the biological mechanisms underlying long COVID to provide more targeted prevention and treatment strategies.