“Beyond persistent symptoms, Long COVID is also associated with an increased risk for significant medical events, including major adverse cardiovascular events and new-onset diabetes mellitus.(1) For many people, Long COVID has a significant impact on their ability to work, study, take care of their families, and participate in other activities of daily living. For these reasons, Long COVID is often described as a “mass disabling event.”(2) Long COVID can also lead to financial hardship, social isolation, and mental health challenges.”
Nearly half of COVID-19 survivors in African countries report ongoing symptoms, with fatigue being the most common.
Up to 25% of patients experience mental health issues like PTSD and anxiety, which African health systems are unprepared to address.