17 million people in Europe have long COVID symptoms: WHO

An estimated 17 million people in Europe suffered symptoms of long COVID during the first two years of the pandemic, says WHO.
An analysis conducted for the world health body’s European office, on Tuesday, announced the research findings on the lasting effects of a COVID-19 infection, known as long COVID.
The figure is based on a model created by the University of Washington, which evaluated cases in the WHO’s 53 European member states.
The criterion was symptom duration of at least three months in 2020 and or 2021.
The study indicates that the probability of contracting long COVID is twice as high in women as in men, the WHO said.
In addition, the risk of long COVID increases dramatically for those with a severe Coronavirus infection requiring hospitalisation for treatment.
One in three affected women and one in five affected men can experience symptoms of long COVID after such a severe course of COVID-19, the modelling showed.
Hans Kluge, Director of the WHO Europe Region, during a WHO meeting in Tel Aviv, said the data “highlights the urgent need for more analysis, more investment, more support and more solidarity with those who experience this condition.”
Millions of people suffered debilitating symptoms in the months following a COVID-19 infection, he said.
“They cannot continue to suffer in silence. Governments and health partners must collaborate to find solutions based on research and evidence,” Mr Kluge said.
Globally, it is estimated that around 145 million people were affected by long COVID symptoms in the first two years of the pandemic.
(dpa/NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette

Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices

Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

States
Judiciary partners revenue board to boost IGR in Taraba
Mr Agya commended the service for its reforms.

NationWide
NRC reaffirms police partnership to protect rail assets
Mr Opeifa described the nation’s railway infrastructure as critical national assets that must be safeguarded.

Africa
Ghana TikToker jailed after claiming President Mahama sacrificed 32 cows to win election
Mr Mahama made a comeback in 2024 after losing reelection in 2016.

Education
Taraba college of education to commence degree programmes
The provost assured parents of uninterrupted academic activities.

Heading 3
Nutrition 774: Shettima urges LG chairmen to tackle malnutrition
He described local government chairmen as the closest tier of government to the people.






