We do need to talk about Long Covid (“Seeing out the fog”, July 1), and urgently. I’m grateful to Nicky Pellegrino and all featured in her excellent piece, as I’m wrestling with post-infection illness, including Long Covid and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. I’ve had to give up my job and begin the marathon process of seeking financial support from Work and Income.
Others have lost their homes, relationships or ability to care for their kids.
Yet we’re not doing enough in Aotearoa to stem the tide of this already huge health problem. Multiple studies now suggest that 10% of Covid infections will develop into the long version.
Sure, our case numbers are fewer than last year, but we still have around 1000 new infections reported daily. Every week, new patients join the online chronic illness groups that I’m part of.
In the premature rush to put the pandemic behind us, we’re missing the chance to limit Long Covid cases and the hit to our economy. Why aren’t all schools and workplaces properly ventilated? Why aren’t maskswearing masks? Yes, we need to talk about better care for Long Covid, and act to lower new Covid infections.
