After three years since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Biden administration revealed on Monday the establishment of an office to organize the government’s response to long COVID, as there are indications that coronavirus cases are increasing once again in the United States.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines long COVID as the “signs, symptoms, and conditions that continue or develop after initial COVID-19 infection.” It includes symptoms like debilitating fatigue, brain fog, and chest discomfort. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, around 23 million Americans have been affected by this condition.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized that the creation of this office establishes the issue as an ongoing priority for the administration.
“As our nation continues to make strides in combating COVID-19, it is crucial that we address the impact of long COVID and provide resources to those in need,” said Secretary Becerra in a statement.
The Office of Long COVID Research and Practice will be responsible for coordinating the government’s response to the long-term effects of the virus.
“This initiative will enhance the efforts being undertaken across the U.S. government to improve the lives of those who continue to experience the long-term impacts of the worst public health crisis in a century,” stated HHS Assistant Secretary Rachel Levine, who leads the new office.
HHS also announced the commencement of long COVID clinical trials as part of the National Institute of Health’s $1.15 billion research program. The objective is to understand, treat, and prevent long COVID. The trials will evaluate potential treatments including drugs, biologics, medical devices, and other therapies, as stated by the NIH.
Meanwhile, COVID-related hospital admissions in the U.S. increased by over 12% in the week ending July 22. However, COVID-related deaths remained stable, according to the CDC.
“This could be the start of a late summer wave,” said Dr. Brendan Jackson, the CDC’s COVID-19 incident manager, in an interview with NPR last week.
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