With the ebb of the fifth wave of the epidemic in Hong Kong, a large number of confirmed patients began to face the new problem of "long new crown" (also known as new crown sequelae).
Since the prevention and control of the new crown pneumonia epidemic in Hong Kong has been relatively stable, there has been no large-scale infection until the fifth wave of the Omicron variant virus caused the epidemic, and the sequelae of the new crown pneumonia have not received much attention in the society.
Hong Kong's medical resources have been insufficient for a long time, and the fifth wave of the epidemic has exposed the problem.
(Getty Images)
Referring to the experience of other countries where a large number of patients with COVID-19 have emerged, the gaps in medical research, medical services and social security of COVID-19 will not only cause patients to suffer from pain, but also suffer a lot in daily life, work and finances. pressure.
A follow-up survey conducted by the Hong Kong Polytechnic University since October 2020 showed that more than 40% of the 118 patients referred by five hospitals in Hong Kong were still suffering from the symptoms of COVID-19.
Fu Shao'e, Professor of Pain Management and Associate Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at PolyU, who led the research, said that Hong Kong citizens are not well aware of the COVID-19. It eases over time," but many people don't get better after a year of symptoms.
Fu Shao'e pointed out that since many patients with new crowns have no obvious symptoms, the Hospital Authority hospitals may not be suitable for patients to seek treatment.
She believes that district health centres, which the government has pushed to establish over the past few years, can play a role.
In addition, effective assessment for some patients who have lost or affected their ability to work due to the long-term new crown, and provide support through disability benefits, unemployment benefits or comprehensive social security assistance, is also an issue that the government should consider.
Hong Kexie Professor of Pain Management and Associate Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at PolyU, Fu Shao’e (left), and Associate Professor Dr Huang Yule of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at PolyU researched the use of physiotherapy to help patients with COVID-19 recover.
(provided by respondents)
For details, please read the 317th issue of "Hong Kong 01" Electronic Weekly Newsletter (May 16, 2022) "The
fifth wave of the epidemic has receded and the new crown patients have no way to care?
".
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