The NDP is calling for more support for those that suffer from long term COVID symptoms in rural areas.
David Shepherd, NDP Critic for Health, said in a press conference on Tuesday in Fort McMurray, that Alberta Health Services estimates that 20 per cent of those infected with COVID-19 will experience symptoms over the long term.
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, more than 332,000 Albertans have contracted COVID-19. This means approximately 65,000 Albertans may have long COVID, and approximately 10,000 people in the north zone will suffer from long COVID.”
According to the NDP, the only research and treatment clinics in the province for long COVID are in Edmonton and Calgary.
Shepherd proposed three courses of action for the UCP at Tuesdays press conference;
- Create a Long COVID Task Force.
- Assist Albertans suffering from Long COVID to qualify under the Disability-Related Employment Supports and Services Regulation.
- Premier Jason Kenney to publicly acknowledge long COVID in legislature.
