The Lingering Effects of COVID-19: Stories of Long-Haulers

TLDRIt has been over two years since the first reported COVID-19 cases in the US. Despite the illness coming and going, nearly one in five American adults still experience lingering symptoms. Two women from Boston and Florida share their debilitating and life-altering experiences with long COVID-19 symptoms. They struggle to find treatment and support, with little understanding of their condition. Long COVID-19 is a mass disabling event, impacting millions of people and highlighting the need for research, specialized clinics, and access to disability benefits.

Key insights

😷Over one in five American adults experience lingering symptoms of COVID-19.

🏥Hospitals are establishing clinics to rehabilitate long-haul COVID-19 patients.

🔬The NIH has allocated $1.2 billion for research on treatments for long COVID-19.

📄Applying for disability benefits for long COVID-19 is challenging due to lack of understanding and medical documentation.

💔Long COVID-19 has caused debilitating symptoms, disrupting the lives of millions and impacting their ability to work.

Q&A

What percentage of American adults experience lingering symptoms of COVID-19?

—Nearly one in five American adults experience lingering symptoms of COVID-19.

How are hospitals addressing long-haul COVID-19 cases?

—Hospitals are opening specialized clinics to rehabilitate long-haul COVID-19 patients.

How much funding has the NIH allocated for research on long COVID-19?

—The NIH has allocated $1.2 billion for research on treatments for long COVID-19.

Why is applying for disability benefits for long COVID-19 challenging?

—Applying for disability benefits is challenging due to a lack of understanding, limited medical documentation, and a lengthy evaluation process.

How has long COVID-19 impacted the lives of those affected?

—Long COVID-19 has caused debilitating symptoms and disruption to the lives of millions, affecting their ability to work and maintain a normal lifestyle.

Timestamped Summary

00:00It has been over two years since the first reported COVID-19 cases in the US. Despite the illness coming and going, nearly one in five American adults still experience lingering symptoms.

01:11Two women, one from Boston and one from Florida, share their experiences with long COVID-19 symptoms, which have been debilitating and life-altering.

02:22Long COVID-19 patients struggle to find treatment and support, with many healthcare providers doubting or dismissing their symptoms.

03:49Hospitals are establishing clinics to rehabilitate long-haul COVID-19 patients and provide specialized care.

06:27Applying for disability benefits for long COVID-19 is challenging due to a lack of understanding, limited medical documentation, and a lengthy evaluation process.

08:26Long COVID-19 is a mass disabling event, impacting millions of people and highlighting the need for research, specialized clinics, and access to disability benefits.

09:59The NIH has allocated $1.2 billion for research on treatments for long COVID-19, recognizing the severity and impact of the condition.

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