Long Covid, a condition that can affect anyone who has contracted the coronavirus, continues to cast a long shadow on millions worldwide. As the global economy grapples with an estimated $1 trillion in costs due to this persistent illness, the human toll remains staggering. Millions find themselves out of work or working reduced hours, with a significant portion of sufferers being healthcare professionals who once stood on the front lines against the pandemic.
While long Covid affects individuals across demographics, it appears more prevalent among women. However, 30-40% of those affected are men. The symptoms of long Covid vary widely, from difficulty breathing and fatigue to a metallic pain in the chest. Despite these clear indicators, long Covid remains underreported. Experts suggest that approximately 10% of those infected with Covid-19 may experience some form of post-Covid syndrome.
For some, the impact of long Covid extends beyond physical symptoms, deeply affecting personal relationships and careers. Many sufferers, including doctors and nurses, find themselves unable to work. Stress and physical exertion can trigger or exacerbate these symptoms, further complicating recovery for those affected.
Several experts have voiced concerns about the support—or lack thereof—provided by governments to people living with long Covid. The UK government, in particular, has faced criticism for its inadequate response.
“It feels to me like the government isn’t putting two and two together: the shortage of nurses, all the people out of work since Covid,” said Matthews. “No one seems to say, ‘Oh, it’s probably because loads of people have long Covid.'”
The psychological impact of this condition is profound. Anxiety and depression are common among sufferers, compounded by a sense of disbelief from medical professionals and employers.
“I certainly think being disbelieved is one of the biggest traumas for Covid patients,” stated Sinclair.
Many long Covid patients find themselves in a distressing limbo, uncertain of their future health prospects.
“It’s not uncommon for us to have an appointment with someone, and them to share that they feel suicidal," Heightman expressed. "It’s a particularly difficult illness to cope with, especially in people who were previously well, and the shock of losing their health and the uncertainty about the future is intolerable.”
Despite these challenges, there remains a glimmer of hope. Some patients report improvements over time, although many continue to endure ongoing symptoms. Experts remain optimistic about future treatments.
“We’re going to come up with some really good treatments soon,” assured Heightman.
Sinclair emphasized the importance of continued efforts in care and research.
“There’s always something you can do. So if someone says to you, ‘I’m sorry, there’s nothing we can do’, in that case, what we can do is care, we can research, we can campaign.”
Long Covid's connection to other conditions such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) adds another layer of complexity. The experience is not limited to adults; children also suffer from this protracted illness.
“It isn’t just grownups who get it,” Avalyn Godfrey noted. “Kids definitely get it as well. But I didn’t even know it existed until I had it.”
The journey towards understanding and managing long Covid continues as researchers strive to unravel its mysteries. Moran warns against complacency.
“Five years from the last pandemic just makes it five years closer to the next one,” Moran observed. “We know it’s coming, and we don’t have to bury our heads in the sand this time.”
