As nations shift to \"living with COVID-19,\" millions grapple with its lingering shadow: long COVID. James and Katie, two young Australian residents, shared their struggles with post-recovery symptoms like chronic fatigue and cognitive fog, underscoring the virus’s lasting impact on daily life, careers, and mental health.
\"I used to hike every weekend. Now, walking to the mailbox feels like climbing a mountain,\" said Katie, who contracted COVID-19 in 2022. James, a former teacher, described how memory lapses forced him to leave his job. Their stories reflect a global trend, with the WHO estimating 10-20% of COVID survivors experience prolonged symptoms.
Glenn Cross, an Australian health expert, emphasized collective responsibility: \"Masking in crowded spaces isn’t just about personal safety—it’s about protecting vulnerable communities as societies adapt.\" While vaccines reduce severe illness, experts urge continued vigilance to mitigate long-term health risks.
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The Long Haul with COVID-19: How much damage does long COVID-19 have?
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