According to health officials, several of those who have recovered keep returning to the hospitals with issues of paralysis, heart problems, difficulty in breathing, fatigue and others. Thus, a follow-up clinic has been set up. Doctors at RGGGH said that the health concerns post COVID are different across different age groups and as per co-morbidities. “Thus, the follow-up care also differs based on their health condition,” said a senior doctor.

“There are patients who even die even after turning negative for COVID-19 because they have very low immunity. We have also seen asymptomatic patients develop hypoxia later and succumb. There are even those in the age group of 30-40 years developing lung disorders and respiratory issues. Thus, follow-up care is required even for asymptomatic patients who have been in institutional quarantine or home isolation and develop symptoms post discharge,” said Dr G Kadhiravan, head of department, Accident & Emergency department, Tagore Medical College and Hospital, Chennai.

Inaugurating the clinic, Vijaya Baskar said it will function from Monday to Saturday. “A few patients who have co-morbidities require follow-up care and treatment due to changes in the body. The clinic has laboratory testing, diagnostic services, counselling services, yoga room and other facilities. All the drugs and treatment will be provided at the clinic,” the Minister said. The clinic also has a registration counter for plasma donation for recovered patients.

According to a study conducted by the University of Leeds and Leeds Teaching Hospitals published in the Journal of Medical Virology, more than 60 per cent of recovered patients complained of heart diseases, fatigue, inflammation and breathlessness. Many also complained of mental health issues, anxiety and problems in rehabilitation.