The aftermath: Adults with long COVID-19

We are still trying to sort out the aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic. With fall/winter seasons in sight, the potential for a COVID surge, and news about developing antibiotic resistant Superbugs – there is a lot to learn.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were many concerns about its potential long-term effects. Experts are now able to examine the virus’ long-term effects on society and the daily lives of those who were infected.

Here’s what we learned about experts’ analysis on the effects of long-term COVID for adults.

Long COVID Adults report difficulty performing daily tasks

Nearly 80% of U.S. adults with long COVID report that their long-standing symptoms have impaired their ability to carry out even the most simple daily activities and routines.

15% of Adults that have been infected with COVID-19 are reported to currently be experiencing long COVID effects. 

Of those adults with long COVID, 81% report that their long-term symptoms from the condition have reduced their ability to carry out day-to-day activities. A quarter of the adults with long COVID said that the limitations were “significant.”

The highest rate of daily activity limitations come from the 18-29 age group, while the lowest rate comes from the 40-49 age group.

The survey’s results mean that over 18 million adult Americans are currently experiencing symptoms of long COVID and 15 million have problems performing daily activities because of it.

Federal data statistics

As part of an ongoing partnership with the Census Bureau, the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) recently added new questions to assess the prevalence of post-COVID-19 conditions (long COVID), on the experimental Household Pulse Survey

This 20-minute online survey was designed to complement the ability of the federal statistical system to rapidly respond and provide relevant information about the impact of the coronavirus pandemic in the U.S. Data collection began on April 23, 2020.

The detailed study statistics given by the CDC include

  • Rates of daily activity limitations according to age.
  • Results and importance of surveys to round out the picture of the long COVID.
  • Future prospects for long COVID patients.

Beginning in Phase 3.5 (on June 1, 2022), NCHS included questions about the presence of symptoms of COVID that lasted three months or longer.  

Beginning in Phase 3.6 (on September 14, 2022), NCHS included a question about whether long-term symptoms among those reporting symptoms lasting three months or longer reduced the ability to carry out day-to-day activities compared with the time before having COVID-19.  

Phase 3.6 will continue with a two-weeks-on, two-weeks-off collection and dissemination approach.

COVID-19 testing and treatment 

COVID surges and antibiotic-resistant Superbug Infections are expected to develop across the United States during the fall/winter months. 

While COVID-19 and its variants are still affecting us globally, it’s important that we pay close attention to the virus’ long-term effects, with the research that NCHS continues to gather. The aftermath of COVID-19 will stay with us for some time, and staying informed can help us in the future

Getting tested for COVID-19 not only helps researchers track the virus, but keeps everyone in your home and community safe as well.

Let’s help minimize the spread of this virus and get tested

Tested positive for COVID-19? We’re here to help you get the COVID treatment that is right for you. 

Still have questions?

Gone are the days of crowded waiting rooms, daunting hospitals, and cold exam tables. At Rume, we offer care on your terms, where and when you need it, including telemedicine, drive thrus, and popups. You’ll get quick results and trusted insights.