A significant number of New Yorkers, including actor Matt McGorry from “Orange Is The New Black,” are experiencing “Long Covid” more than five years after the pandemic’s onset, according to recent findings.
McGorry, 39, who hails from Manhattan, mentioned in a recent Urban Health Ministry online series that navigating daily life has become a survival tactic for him.
In the past year, the Health Department has led a community vaccination initiative that engaged 21,805 residents, providing them with valuable medical support and outreach services.
The department continues to investigate the effects of Covid-19 on the public, with early results suggesting that over 25% of adults report long-lasting symptoms consistent with Long Covid.
Among those affected, more than 80% of individuals with Long Covid indicate they have limited daily functioning, with upwards of 25% noting that they faced changes in employment as a result of related health issues.
As of 2023, around 500,000 residents acknowledged that their lives had been significantly disrupted by Covid-related health complications.
A representative from the health department stated, “These studies point to the ongoing long-term effects of Covid-19 on New Yorkers, impacting both their health and daily routines.”
They emphasized the importance of continued data analysis to understand the long-term burden of Long Covid and shape public health strategies accordingly.
Symptoms associated with Long Covid can vary greatly and include persistent coughing or shortness of breath, “brain fog,” dizziness, elevated heart rate, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, fatigue, digestive issues, muscle pain, and even loss of taste or smell.
Long Covid can also lead to complications like vascular damage, raising the risk of heart disease.
Dr. Michelle Morse, the Acting Director, highlighted the seriousness of Long Covid and underscored the medical community’s ongoing efforts to monitor the health of individuals exposed to toxic conditions since events like 9/11.
Morse shared insights from video discussions with McGorry, noting that about one in three New Yorkers may experience ongoing symptoms lasting more than a month post-Covid. However, not all of these cases fit the full definition of Long Covid.
McGorry discussed how Long Covid affected his work, including roles in popular shows like “Orange Is The New Black” and “How to Get Away with Murder.”
“Fatigue has been a significant challenge for me, and it still persists,” he revealed.
He mentioned feeling a bit “off,” experiencing sleep issues, and dealing with vascular damage and microclots.
McGorry made his struggles public to shed light on the ongoing medical issues stemming from the coronavirus, aiming to assist others in similar situations.
“I feel like I’ve been shut out of my industry, which has taken a toll on my finances,” he explained to Morse. “No one should have to choose between their income and their health… I’m determined to raise awareness.”
Over the previous year, the Health Department has worked towards boosting Covid and flu vaccination rates in underserved communities, focusing on building resilience and promoting equity in vaccine access. Their efforts have reached about 319,507 residents and facilitated 42,773 referrals for Covid vaccinations.
In total, Medical and Social Services Coordinators have directed 80,975 individuals toward Covid-related assistance, including 21,805 to long-term specialized care and another 257,802 to various health and social services.
