Long COVID Disrupts Lives, Ignites Calls for U.S. Policy Reform
Nearly 24 million U.S. adults grapple with long COVID symptoms such as fatigue, memory loss, and respiratory issues, according to the CDC. A Brookings Institute study reveals 4 million jobs lost nationwide due to the condition, spotlighting its economic and societal toll.
A Personal Battle With an Invisible Illness
Charlie McCone, 32, contracted COVID-19 in 2020 and now lives with debilitating symptoms. \"Long COVID forced me into disability,\" he told CGTN Stringer, criticizing the lack of public health warnings. \"We’re a neglected group—people don’t understand how severe this is.\"
Calls for Action Grow Louder
McCone argues that government inaction has worsened the crisis: \"Without awareness campaigns, families and employers dismiss our struggles.\" Experts warn delayed intervention risks long-term workforce shortages and healthcare strain.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
