An Incomplete Picture: Understanding the Burden of Long Covid
This 2024 Economist Impact report examines the global burden of Long Covid across eight countries, highlighting its complex health, social, and economic impacts.
Long Covid describes a wide range of symptoms—over 200 identified—arising after acute Covid-19 infection, often in clusters affecting multiple organs. Common symptoms include fatigue, breathlessness, and cognitive dysfunction, which can be debilitating for some. Severity of initial infection is the strongest risk factor, but mild or asymptomatic cases can also lead to long-term effects. Prevalence estimates vary widely, but experts suggest 2–7% of the population may be affected—comparable to major chronic diseases.
The condition can severely reduce quality of life, limit employment, cause financial hardship, and increase housing insecurity. Stigma—both external and self-directed—remains a barrier to care.
The report identifies good practice in care, including:
Early diagnosis without unnecessary delays.
Multidisciplinary, patient-centred care pathways linking medical, social, and employment support.
Symptom-focused treatment, drawing on existing therapies while research continues.
Prevention through vaccination and early treatment of acute Covid-19.
However, most countries lack integrated policy frameworks to address Long Covid’s broad impacts, and existing services are inconsistent and under threat.
Call to action:
Agree a global definition and standard metrics.
Improve data collection and use.
Focus on prevention.
Use effective symptom management tools.
Build coordinated, multidisciplinary care pathways.
Create coherent cross-sector policy frameworks.
Maintain commitment—Long Covid is not going away.
The report warns that without sustained action, millions will continue to face inadequate care and support. Lessons learned should shape preparedness for future pandemics.
Download the report by clicking here.
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