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Nearly 36 million in Europe may have experienced long coronavirus, WHO official says

• By Newsdesk
• Europe
• Jun 28, 2023

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According to the World Health Organization's (WHO) regional director, Dr. Hans Kluge, approximately 36 million individuals in Europe may be suffering from long-term health issues as a result of contracting COVID-19 during the first three years of the pandemic. Dr. Kluge referred to "long COVID" as a complex condition that is not yet well understood and highlighted the need for comprehensive diagnostics and treatment to address this ongoing health concern.

Dr. Kluge emphasized that without effectively addressing long COVID, true recovery from the pandemic would be hindered. He reiterated the importance of vaccination, particularly for older adults, individuals with underlying medical conditions, and those with weakened immune systems.

Although most individuals recover from COVID-19 within a few weeks, some continue to experience persistent symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive difficulties.

The WHO's Europe region encompasses 53 countries, with a combined population exceeding 900 million. According to statistics from University of Washington researchers, approximately one in 30 residents of the region has experienced long COVID in the past three years, as stated by Dr. Kluge.

Dr. Kluge also highlighted that COVID-19 has exacerbated the impact of pre-existing diseases, including cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses, which account for 75% of mortality in Europe. Individuals with such underlying conditions have been and continue to be more vulnerable to severe forms of COVID-19.