The Association between Short-Term PM2.5 Exposure and Long COVID on the Respiratory System

Long COVID is an emerging medical condition defined by continuing symptoms reported by those who had previously recovered from COVID-19. The aforementioned symptoms impose significant effects on several physiological systems, especially the respiratory system. During the COVID-19 pandemic, several countries, including Thailand, encountered the issue of PM 2.5 pollution, which has had adverse effects on human health. This study was to evaluate the impact of short-term exposure to PM 2.5 on the respiratory system and its correlation with the prevalence of Long COVID, while also examining the relevant factors, particularly the presence of PM 2.5 exposure. This Cross-Sectional analytical study was conducted with 694 participants who had recovered from COVID-19 in the northeast of Thailand. A generalized linear mixed model was used to identify the associations. It was found that the prevalence of Long COVID on the respiratory system: participants exposed to PM 2.5 at 26–37 µg m −3 . had an increased risk of developing Long COVID on the respiratory system at 50.54% (95% CI: 40.20–60.84), exposure to PM 2.5 ≥ 1 hour per day (AOR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.33–2.55, lived in urban areas (AOR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.13–2.37), not wore a face mask to prevent PM 2.5 exposure (AOR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.25–2.54), female (AOR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.05–2.18), farmer (AOR: 5.78, 95% CI: 1.05–2.18). The risk of exposure to PM 2.5 is still at a level that affects health, and also affects Long COVID in many systems, especially the respiratory system. Therefore, risk groups and relevant agencies should use the study results as a prevention guideline to reduce the risk that may occur in each aspect of health. And there should be a process to prevent the risk of PM 2.5 exposure.