August 3, 2021
Fatigue can be a lingering symptom for people who have recovered from COVID-19. Photo supplied.
Story by Korey Cherneski
For people struggling with lingering symptoms of COVID-19, in-person, phone and online resources are available through Alberta Health Services (AHS).
Most people who’ve tested positive for the virus fully recover. However, as many as one in four individuals are left with lingering physical, psychological, social and cognitive effects that can include chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, ‘brain fog,’ anxiety/depression and shortness of breath
This is known as “long COVID”. The majority of these individuals can manage their own symptoms, with the appropriate resources and supports.
“AHS knows that post-COVID recovery and rehabilitation is essential for these patients,” says Dr. Chester Ho, AHS senior medical director, Neurosciences, Rehabilitation & Vision Strategic Clinical Network.
“A comprehensive approach has been implemented provincewide to support those struggling with long-term effects of COVID-19, and also to help guide healthcare providers in delivering care plans tailored for each patient’s unique needs.”
For these individuals, online resources and supports are available at ahs.ca/healthyaftercovid.
They include:
Supports for healthcare providers are also available and include care pathways and toolkits; and a Post COVID-19 Rehabilitation and Functional Screening and Assessment Tool to help providers determine what rehabilitation supports may be required moving forward.
Albertans can also access supports by phone through Health Link (811), the Rehabilitation Advice Line (1-833-379-0563); and the Mental Health Help Line (811) or call toll free at 1-877-303-2642.
AHS is focused on coordinating resources and supports for Albertans after a COVID-19 diagnosis by:
