Recently, protestors marched outside the White House to call attention to the challenges faced by those suffering from Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and long Covid. A new study published in the journal JAMA has revealed that individuals with long Covid are more likely to be unemployed than those who do not have long Covid.
The study surveyed 15,308 individuals aged 18 to 69 in the United States from February 2021 to March 2022. Researchers found that 14.6% had reported long Covid symptoms, with 12.3% being unemployed, compared to 8.7% without long Covid. The study also found that 46% of the participants with long Covid experienced brain fog or memory impairment, which was linked to higher rates of unemployment.
A recent report suggested that long Covid has resulted in losses worth $170 billion and has kept 1 million U.S.-based workers from returning to work. This has caused a significant strain on the American economy, and is something that needs to be addressed.
It is clear that those suffering from long Covid are facing a difficult challenge. In light of this, it is important that further research is conducted to gain a better understanding of long Covid and its effects. Additionally, efforts should be made to develop strategies to assist those with long Covid in returning to work and manage their symptoms.