A recent report has revealed that one in five patients registered to a pair of GP surgeries in the north of England are living with long Covid, highlighting stark regional inequalities in the prevalence of the condition. The north-west of England had the highest rates of long Covid, with the average rate across England being 4.4%. The report also found that the most deprived areas of England had almost double the rate of long Covid compared to the least deprived areas.
Long Covid symptoms include extreme fatigue and brain fog that persist after 12 weeks of first contracting the virus. Dr. Stephanie Scott, the lead author of the report, emphasized the need for more research into long Covid and for measures to be put in place to better support those living with the condition.
Hannah Davies, executive director at Health Equity North, discussed the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on northern regions and the lasting effects being felt in the north of England, with the highest rates of long Covid. The report calls for action from the government to address the regional differences in rates of long Covid and to fund more research into the condition.
The report sheds light on the challenges faced by those living with long Covid and the need for better support and understanding of the condition. It is hoped that the findings will prompt policymakers to take action and allocate resources to better diagnose, treat, and support those living with long Covid.
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