Across the country over 90 million people have been diagnosed with COVID-19. While some people get better after a few weeks, some are experiencing persistent symptoms months after an infection. While research is still ongoing and many experience a range of symptoms, new data points to 1 in 8 COVID patients developing long COVID. The U.S. Health and Human Services Department now recognizes long COVID could be a disability as it limits major life activities. As for a recent update from the New Mexico Department of Health, COVID in New Mexico is stable, but still seeing a high level of cases.
On this week’s Let’s Talk New Mexico, we’ll be taking a look at what is the future for our healthcare system taking care of an influx of people now experiencing debilitating symptoms that make everyday tasks a challenge? What rights do individuals have once their infection qualifies as a disability? Email us at LetsTalk@kunm.org or call in live during the show at 505-277-5866.
GUESTS:
- Beatrice Adler-Bolton, Host of Death Panel Podcast
- Alisa Valdes, long COVID survivor
- Mia Ives-Rublee, Disability Justice Initiative at the Center for American Progress
- Dr. Vesta Sandoval, chief medical office, Lovelace Healthcare System New Mexico
Resources:
What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Patient Led Research Collaborative
UNM Center for Development and Disability
A Tsunami of Disability is Coming as a Result of ‘Long COVID’
Guidance on “Long COVID” as a Disability Under the ADA Section 504 and Section 1557
To solve the mystery of long COVID, researchers look to an older disease
