The prevalence and risk factors of PTSD symptoms among medical assistance workers during the COVID-19 pandemic

•The prevalence of PTSD symptoms among medical assistance members was higher than those in the general population.•Excellent collegial relationship was a protective factor of PTSD symptoms.•Mental health counseling was positively correlated with PTSD symptoms.•Depression symptom, anxiety symptoms and stress symptoms were risk factors of PTSD symptoms.•Preemptive measures could be taken to avoid or alleviate mental distress among medics in the future.