Consider Long Covid in the Workforce
This flyer from the Department of Labor highlights what employers may need to do to support employees who have been diagnosed with Long Covid related to their specific symptoms. Click to access Working_with Long COVID.pdf
Medical Concerns of Long Covid include:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Difficulty thinking or concentrating (sometimes called “brain fog”)
- Fast-beating or pounding heart (known as heart palpitations)
- Joint or muscle pain
- Headaches
In a person with an intellectual disability or Autism these medical concerns may appear different or like a “behavior”. They also may not be able to communicate symptoms or specific medical conditions. If you notice any changes in behaviors, report this information to a medical professional. Watch for these changes you may see:
- Breathing that uses the entire chest like the person is trying to catch their breath.
- Fingers, toes or lips that are a darker color or blueish.
- Grabbing at neck, chest, or face.
- Not interested in normal or favorable activities.
- Refusal to complete tasks or complete in the normal timeframe
- Tired or not wanting to get out of bed
- Complaints of general discomfort
- Self-injurious behaviors
A person with Long Covid can still be successful at home or at work, but may need some accommodations. Review the suggestions listed on the Department of Labor’s Working with Long Covid flyer to see how you can help increase the likelihood of success and help the person improve their health.
