Southwest Virginians asked to participate in Long COVID study

LEE COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) – People in Southwest Virginia who have dealt with Long COVID are invited to share their experiences with the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).

The VDH announced Monday that its Long COVID surveillance project is available to Southwest Virginians. The project first began in Central Virginia in October 2023 but has since opened to those in the Southwest portion of the Commonwealth.

Long COVID occurs when a person remains ill for two or more months after contracting COVID-19. VDH stated that symptoms can include difficulty breathing, coughing, feeling weak and tired and certain organ issues.

The department stated an official diagnosis of Long COVID is not required to participate in the study. The VDH is hoping to learn more about the long-term effects of COVID-19 with more participation by Virginians.

Those who live in the Cumberland Plateau, LENOWISCO and Mount Rogers health districts may participate. The study was also opened to additional health districts outside of News Channel 11’s coverage area.

Anyone who would like to participate in the study can begin to do so by filling out an online survey. The VDH will reach out after receiving the survey.

According to the department, the findings of the study will submitted for future publication and will later be made available on CVHD.org.

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