Months or even years after recovering from COVID-19, millions of people find themselves still struggling with exhaustion, brain fog, and shortness of breath. For some, everyday tasks like climbing stairs or working full-time become impossible. This condition, known as Long COVID, remains a major public health crisis. According to Dr. Michelle Morse, MD, MPH and Acting Health Commissioner and Chief Medical Officer of the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC DOHMH) in an interview with the AmNews, Long COVID is “a range of symptoms that can include things like fatigue or trouble breathing or muscle aches or trouble focusing or remembering tasks. Those are the kinds of things that people might experience and unfortunately this can happen…during an infection with COVID or in the weeks to months following.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines Long COVID as a chronic condition lasting three months or longer after initially being infected with SARS-CoV-2, showcasing a wide array of symptoms and continues to pose a major public health challenge.
According to Dr. Eric Griggs, a New Orleans-based Community Medicine Doctor and Health Educator, in an interview with the AmNews, “we’re still finding out about Long COVID, that’s why we’re calling it Long COVID.”
Long COVID affects everyone, but certain groups are more vulnerable:
- older adults and those with existing health issues;
- individuals who have not been vaccinated;
- patients who were hospitalized during their initial COVID-19 illness;
Study Data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey also reveals that Hispanic respondents were the most likely to report long-lasting COVID-19 symptoms, followed by Black respondents, compared to other racial or ethnic groups. This highlights the need for equitable access to healthcare and preventive measures to lessen its long-term impacts.
Related: OP-ED: Protect Medicaid — Black New Yorkers’ health depends on it
Long COVID can also lead to serious conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders, making its diagnosis and management complex. A Cleveland Clinic study found that people with any type of COVID-19 infection were twice as likely to have a major cardiac event, such as heart attack, stroke, or even death, for up to three years after diagnosis.
The risk was significantly higher for patients hospitalized for COVID-19 and more of a determinant than a previous history of heart disease. In a similar context, Dr. Griggs stated that “when you think about Long COVID and think about the way it [affects] the supply of the blood vessels to your brain, how long would it take for you to get back to clear thought and function…there’s not a finite number to it. We’re still finding out more and more.”
Long COVID significantly affects both individuals and society at large. According to the CDC, around one in four adults suffering from this condition report limitations in daily activities, with over 1 million Americans potentially unable to work because of its debilitating nature. According to Dr. Griggs, “I know some people that have had COVID and unfortunately Long COVID and the effect of COVID…pushed them over the edge. They were pre-diabetic and now they’re diabetic. That lasts for the rest of their lives.”
The CDC recommends the following strategies to safeguard against respiratory illnesses, including Long COVID:
- keep vaccinations up to date;
- practice good hygiene;
- enhance indoor air quality;
- implement preventive measures if experiencing respiratory illness symptoms; and
- seek prompt medical attention if at high risk for severe illness.
New York City has taken proactive steps to address Long COVID. The NYC Health + Hospitals AfterCare Program links individuals with ongoing symptoms to relevant health and social services. Residents who experience symptoms for more than 28 days after infection can access information and assistance through this initiative.
Support groups such as Long COVID Alliance, and Long COVID Families provide crucial resources for both patients and caregivers. These organizations play a crucial role in creating a sense of community and pushing for improved research and treatment solutions.
Children suffering from Long COVID also need special care. Resources like “Pacing Penguins,” offered by Long COVID Kids, help children manage their energy levels and prevent exacerbation of symptoms. The U.S. Department of Education guarantees protections for students with Long COVID under Section 504, ensuring they receive necessary accommodations to support their educational requirements.
For those dealing with Long COVID while employed, the Department of Labor and the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) offer helpful guidance. Employers are encouraged to provide accommodations such as flexible work schedules, remote work options, and adjusted job responsibilities to assist affected workers.
Long COVID is a stark reminder that the consequences of the pandemic are far from over. Continued research, public awareness, and support for affected individuals are crucial in addressing this multifaceted condition. If you or someone you know is struggling with Long COVID, seek medical care and explore support groups. The fight against COVID-19 didn’t end with the vaccine. It continues with ensuring care for those still suffering.
If you are recovering from COVID19 or experiencing Long COVID, you can call 212-COVID19 to receive specialty care, or visit www.nychealthandhospitals.org/services/covid-19 to learn more about NYC’s COVID-19 Centers of Excellence. For additional resources about COVID-19, visit www1.nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/index.page. COVID-19 testing, masks, and vaccination resources can also be accessed on the AmNews COVID-19 page: www.amsterdamnews.com/covid.