Long Covid affects an estimated 2 million people in France

Long Covid is estimated to affect more than 2 million people in France, according to Santé publique France. The condition is characterized by a wide range of debilitating symptoms, including extreme exhaustion, respiratory and cardiac issues, muscle weakness, and cognitive difficulties.

Patients report significant life disruptions, with some experiencing years of bedridden existence or the inability to return to work. Because the diagnosis is purely clinical, there is currently no specific medical test to certify the condition, which has historically led to medical uncertainty and delays in diagnosis.

While medical management of the condition has improved since the early years of the pandemic, experts and patient advocacy groups, such as Covid Long Solidarité and Espoirs, emphasize that the suffering and resulting disability remain heavily underestimated.