A common virus could nearly quadruple your odds of suffering new back problems

A common virus could cause more than just a cough.With cold and flu season quickly approaching as summer turns to fall, the chances of getting sick from influenza or COVID are also increasing.And a new study from the Public Health Agency of Canada and Statistics Canada indicates unexpected risks from one virus in particular.The CDC recently reported that more people are seeking emergency medical care for COVID-19, and is increasing across the country.As the potential for cases increases, research published in the Canada Communicable Disease Report found a link between the virus and the chances of being diagnosed with a new medical condition.Analyzing data from 8,809 adults between April 2022 and June 2023, researchers found that those who had COVID twice had 76% higher odds of receiving a new diagnosis.Repeat infections were associated with nearly four times the odds of new back problems, while the chances of receiving a new respiratory diagnosis were connected to a five times increase.Meanwhile, those who experienced one infection also saw 63% odds of a new medical diagnosis.And those who had symptoms that lingered for three months or longer had more than three times the odds.These findings come on the heels of the CDC estimating earlier this month that COVID infections are currently increasing or likely to in 35 states.The researchers behind the study believe that because those with long-lasting or severe symptoms visit their doctors more often, they’re more likely to get a diagnosis for an unrelated condition as well.They also estimate that prolonged symptoms may be due to an undiagnosed condition, in a reverse-causation pattern.New diagnoses were concentrated among older adults, as well as those who smoked, had obesity, a disability or were living with at least one existing health condition.The study also found that adults who weren’t fully vaccinated before their first infection had higher odds of a diagnosis for a new medical condition, such as cardiovasc...