Long Covid, a condition in which individuals experience persistent symptoms of COVID-19 long after their initial diagnosis, has affected millions across the globe. For some, these symptoms have been life-altering, causing them to spend the majority of their days in bed due to extreme fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and other debilitating physical symptoms. Despite the growing number of Long Covid cases, many individuals feel ignored by the government’s response to the pandemic. In this article, we will explore the experiences of those who have been left struggling with Long Covid and question whether enough is being done to support them.
Avril Dowling of County Cork, Ireland, speaks out about her ongoing battle with Long Covid, nearly 18 months after contracting the virus. Avril claims to spend up to 90% of her time in bed suffering from severe fatigue, cognitive and emotional changes, migraines, and sensitivity to noise and light. She also experiences pins and needles in her hands, and her arms are affected. Simple tasks like taking a shower can leave her exhausted and in need of bed rest.
Avril faced even more challenges while trying to continue working after her COVID-19 diagnosis. Despite feeling tired, she went back to her job in finance in January 2021. However, her symptoms persisted, and she eventually had to reduce her work hours significantly. Avril was signed out of work in November, hoping that rest would be all she needed. Instead, catching another virus seemed to have made matters worse.
Today, Avril is vocal about the challenges she faces with Long Covid, which affects over 230,500 people in Ireland. She argues that the condition requires more attention from the public and especially the government, emphasizing the mental toll it takes on patients. She laments how Long Covid sufferers feel “forgotten” and insists that people try to understand the debilitating nature of the illness. Moreover, Long Covid clinics in Ireland were closed in 2022 despite a recent upsurge in COVID-19 cases. Avril believes the closure of the clinics will only make it harder for people to get tested clinically, and they will not have access to antigen testing.
Altogether, Avril’s story works to raise awareness of Long Covid, which has only recently garnered greater recognition. Long Covid clinics worldwide are treating patients with a range of symptoms, which can last for months and, in some cases, even years after their initial COVID-19 infection. Therefore, granting access, raising awareness of the condition, and providing resources for patients will remain integral in supporting those with Long Covid.
ernment
Living with Long Covid is a long and difficult battle that is often fought alone. It’s been a year since this debilitating condition first came into the world, and yet governmental support has been lacking. For those suffering from the long-term effects of COVID-19, the future remains uncertain, and the lack of aid has only added fuel to the fire. However, hope remains. As more and more people share their stories, Long Covid is gaining the recognition it deserves. We must continue to shine a light on this condition and advocate for those who continue to suffer in silence. Together, we can raise awareness and push for the necessary support and funding to fight Long Covid.
