Introduction In Germany more than 45,000 cases of COVID-19 are already recognized as Occupational Disease (OD) for workers in the health and welfare sector. Different long term effects of COVID-19 are described in literature, fatigue being one of the most common symptoms observed after the infection.

Objectives We assessed long term effects of COVID-19 three months and more after the SARS-CoV-2 infection in health and social workers (HSW).

Methods A self-administered questionnaire was sent to 3,800 HSW with COVID-19 recognized as OD in January 2021. The questionnaire was self-developed and assessed biographical data, symptoms at time of infection, quality of life (QoL) and workability as well as COVID-19 associated symptoms three months or more after infection. The study was approved by the Medical Ethic Committee in Hamburg, Germany.

Results A total of 2,018 HSW returned the questionnaire. Response rate was 53%. 82% were female and 52% were older than 50 years. 42% worked in hospitals and 30% in nursing homes, 9% were doctors and 56% nurses. Compared to the time before the infection, QoL was reduced by 72% and work ability was reduced by 83%. Severe fatigue was reported by 20%, sever concentration and memory problems by 14% and severe breathlessness by 9%. 4.5% had already taken part in a rehabilitation and 37% wished to take part in a rehabilitation.

Conclusion Long term fatigue symptoms are common in HSW more than three months after COVID-19. The need for rehabilitation in HSW with COVID-19 as OD is high. The further cause and the treatment options for long term effects and especially for fatigue need to be studied.