Long COVID's Economic Impact: Rising Absenteeism in the Workplace

In a recent study, researchers from the University of Utah and Hannam University have unveiled alarming insights into the economic repercussions of long COVID on the workforce. The research indicates that millions of workdays are lost annually due to absenteeism linked to long COVID, resulting in significant financial losses for the U.S. economy. Published in the journal PLOS ONE on June 10, 2025, the study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions for affected employees, underscoring long COVID as a critical public health issue.

Long COVID, characterized by persistent symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and heart complications lasting three months or more post-infection, has emerged as a significant health concern since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the 2024 US national survey report, approximately 18% of adults in the United States have reported experiencing long COVID, with about 7.5% currently suffering from related symptoms. This translates to an estimated 60 million individuals who may be affected by the condition.

The researchers analyzed data from a nationally representative sample of 131,685,516 adult full-time employees aged 18 to 64, utilizing the 2022 Full-Year Population Characteristics file from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Their findings revealed that the prevalence of long COVID among full-time workers was approximately 7%, with a notably higher prevalence among women and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes.

The study found that employees with long COVID averaged eight missed workdays per year, compared to only four days for those without the condition. Specifically, individuals with long COVID experienced an additional 2.54 missed workdays annually. Women reported 1.45 more missed workdays than their male counterparts. In comparison to those who never contracted COVID-19, employees with a history of the virus recorded 1.90 additional missed workdays, while those with long COVID recorded a staggering 4.05 more days.

These findings underscore the significant economic burden long COVID imposes on the labor market. The cumulative absenteeism attributable to long COVID is estimated to account for around 23 million missed workdays annually. This translates to a potential economic loss of approximately $6.4 billion in workplace productivity, based on average daily income figures in the United States.

Moreover, the implications of long COVID extend beyond individual health; they contribute to broader economic challenges, particularly in sectors like healthcare and retail, which are already facing labor shortages. The increased absenteeism exacerbates inflationary pressures by driving up wages and operational costs.

Experts emphasize the need for employers and policymakers to develop effective strategies to support employees affected by long COVID. Recommendations include the implementation of flexible work schedules, remote work opportunities, and enhanced healthcare coverage to assist in the transition back to work. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Professor of Public Health at Harvard University, noted that "the economic rationale for investing in long COVID treatments is clear, as the financial implications of inaction could be staggering."

The study also highlights disparities in recovery rates and support systems across different countries. While U.S. and Chinese workers tend to return to work more rapidly, European counterparts often experience longer recovery times, indicating a need for tailored interventions based on regional contexts.

In light of these findings, the call for immediate action to address the long-term impacts of long COVID on the workforce has never been more critical. As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic, understanding and mitigating the economic consequences of long COVID will be paramount to fostering a resilient labor market and ensuring the well-being of millions of employees.

The research serves as a stark reminder of the pandemic's enduring legacy, emphasizing the importance of continued support and intervention for those affected by long COVID.