Patients describe impact of long COVID on their lives

A parliamentary committee report into the effects of long COVID has been handed down, with hundreds of submissions received on the impacts of the virus.

"Concentration and focus, memory, stamina, cohesion, general cognitive function are all impaired. There is no certainty as to whether the issue will subside" - Brimbank Community-led Long COVID Support Group

"My family member has been enduring long COVID symptoms for over four months - with no end in sight." - Family member of long COVID patient

"Since my first bout of COVID, I have had continued pain and numbness in my chest and shoulder. The pain varies between total numbness and burning agony, but never fully disappears." - Long COVID patient

"The impacts have absolutely destroyed my life in all areas ... my health is no longer the same, I cannot work to earn money or go out for very long." - Long COVID patient Karen Johnston

"The frustration and sadness I feel on a daily basis that I am unable to live how I used to is beginning to affect my mental health. It is a lonely illness, one that lacks support, and also, I feel is poorly recognised and is still being accepted." - Long COVID patient

"The brain fog still comes and goes and in my mind that is the most terrifying part even more than the exhaustion." - Long COVID patient

Australian Associated Press