Select Subcommittee to Hold Hearing on Understanding and Addressing Long COVID and Its Consequences

Washington, D.C. (July 18, 2022) – Tomorrow, July 19, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. ET, the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis, chaired by Rep. James E. Clyburn, will hold a hybrid hearing on understanding and addressing Long COVID and its consequences. A public health expert, an expert in workforce issues, a patient advocate, and an American suffering from Long COVID will testify to the impacts of Long COVID, and how the federal government can help Americans managing Long COVID as the nation continues to move beyond the coronavirus crisis.

Long COVID has affected millions of Americans, sometimes causing serious, long-term health issues that have forced people out of the workforce and interfered with daily life. A recent federal government estimate indicates that nearly one in five adults who have previously been infected with the coronavirus are still experiencing symptoms of Long COVID, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive dysfunction (e.g., “brain fog”), and chronic pain, among others. Approximately 1 million Americans may have been pushed out of work because of the condition, causing them to lose wages and, in some cases, employer-based health insurance. Many Americans face difficulties in receiving a diagnosis and treatment due to a lack of awareness and barriers to care.

Women, Black and Hispanic people, and those with disabilities may be at greater risk of experiencing Long COVID symptoms. As scientists continue to research these factors, many experts worry that Long COVID could exacerbate existing socioeconomic and health disparities and further increase challenges to workforce participation and economic stability for these populations. Despite the prevalence of Long COVID, patients are often left with few options for treatment, as research into the condition is ongoing and limited.

The Biden-Harris Administration has developed a robust action plan to address Long COVID as part of the National COVID-19 Preparedness Plan, including funding research, delivering high-quality medical care, recognizing Long COVID as a disability, and strengthening support for affected Americans. As Americans continue to grapple with the enduring effects of Long COVID and the coronavirus generally, governments at all levels must work closely with the private sector to accelerate research into detecting, preventing, and treating Long COVID and to expand access to medical care and economic support for those struggling with the condition.

The hearing will build on the Select Subcommittee’s longstanding work to identify the long-term effects of the coronavirus crisis.