OUTComes POST Viral Infection: The OUTPOST study

The primary aim of the study is to define the point-prevalence of a Post-Viral Syndrome (PVS, Long COVID) at 12-24 weeks post SARS Cov-2 infection versus infective (RSV A/B or Influenza A/B) and non-infective controls using an operationalised PVS research case definition in the Australian community. The study will also help to understand: - how often SARS-CoV-2 infection and other respitatory viral infections cause PVS , - what symptoms (and symptom clusters) occur, and - what medical, mental health and functional impact those symptoms may have. We will screen-swab up to 10,000 participants aged 12+ with recent onset (<7 days) respiratory symptoms, to enroll a total of 500 confirmed acute SARS-CoV-2 infection cases, 500 Influenza cases and 500 RSV cases, as well as 500 non-infective control subjects across Australia. Participants will be tested for respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A/B, RSV A/B. Up to a total of 2000 participants who are positive for SARS CoV-2, Influenza A/B, RSV A/B and non-infective controls will be followed up at 6, 12, 24 and 48 weeks via self-reported questionnaires to assess for ongoing symptoms and application of a standardised PVS case definition. The OUTPOST cohort will provide a basis for health economic analysis. The cohort will complement a concurrent mapping exercise of existing studies and cohorts on Long COVID in addition to specialist support services and clinics around the country. Together, these project activities will inform better care and support for people experiencing Long COVID in Australia.