Lung Saskatchewan Develops Long COVID Resources and Support
People in Saskatchewan suffering from long COVID need support. Lung Saskatchewan, with support from Saskatchewan Blue Cross, recently launched a website housing up-to-date, evidence based, scientific information about long COVID. The website includes information on treatments currently available, prevention strategies, how to self-manage common symptoms, and more. This much needed resource provides those living with long COVID practical tips, tools, and resources to help manage symptoms.
“We have heard over and over from people suffering from long COVID that they need more support and more resources. Lung Saskatchewan consulted with its COVID-19 Support group, and the Patient Advisory Council from the Respiratory Research Centre at the University of Saskatchewan to provide resources that are scientific, peer-reviewed information. In addition, we continue to offer support through our helpline, support groups, and educational programs,” said Erin Kuan, President & CEO, Lung Saskatchewan.
Some people who have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 can experience long-term effects from their infection. This has come to be known as long COVID or post-COVID condition (PCC). Long COVID is not COVID-19. Symptoms can be quite different from those experienced during the initial infection. Long COVID refers to the longer-term effects some people experience after their COVID-19 infection. Long COVID can include a wide range of ongoing health problems; these conditions can last weeks, months, or years.
"We are proud to support Lung Saskatchewan in their efforts to develop comprehensive resources for individuals experiencing long COVID. Through our partnership, Saskatchewan Blue Cross aims to support Lung Saskatchewan in providing practical tips, tools, and resources to help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those living with long COVID," said Kelly Wilson, President & CEO at Saskatchewan Blue Cross.
To support new Canadians living with long COVID, the website also provides self-management resources like Movement and Exercise, Managing Fatigue, Managing Breathlessness, and Managing Brain Fog, in English, Arabic, Dari, and Ukrainian.
“This website is patient-friendly, easy to navigate, and comprehensive. People living with PCC have provided important feedback to the Lung Sask team in order to make this website a premiere go-to resource for addressing key needs. The explanations about PCC, self-management, and available supports have been brought together in an evidence-based, one-stop shop that will continue to evolve as new information becomes available”, says Donna Goodridge, RN, Ph.D. Professor in the Division of Respirology, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine and Executive Director of the Respiratory Research Centre. “Particularly novel is the inclusion of information to support new Canadians who speak Ukrainian, Arabic, and Dari in their own languages, who may not have the same access as other Canadians.”
