Many of us see and know Covid as something in the past, however for many Covid-19 still plays a significant role in their day to day lives.
Statistics show that as of January 2023 that still 2.0 million people living in private households in the UK were experiencing self-reported long Covid (Office National Statistics – Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey (CIS)).
What is Long Covid?
'Long Covid' is the coined phrase that relates to the ongoing un-wellness experienced by individuals following the acute period of the Covid-19 infection. It is where some individuals suffer persistent symptoms that can be hindering for weeks, or even months, after the virus was first contracted. Unfortunately, the chances of having long Covid is unknown. As the NHS states that chances of having long-term symptoms does not necessarily link with the seriousness of the illness from when first being contracted.
What are the symptoms of Long Covid?
Covid-19 can affect us all in different ways and so symptoms can vary significantly.
Of the 2.0 million people living in private households in the UK who were experiencing self-reported long Covid fatigue was the most common symptom (71%), followed by a difficulty in concentrating (52%), shortness of breath (48%) and muscle ache (47%).
The symptoms are extensive as the NHS has provided that other symptoms can include problems with your memory and concentration ("brain fog"), muscle aches, heart palpitations (insomnia), dizziness and many other symptoms.
If you have had symptoms of Covid-19 for 4 weeks or more and are worried the NHS advises you contact your local GP for help.
How to manage Long Covid in the workplace?
Recovery from long term Covid can potentially be a lengthy process causing significant impacts to work and home life. Therefore, it is important that employees are supported to allow them to recover at their own pace and avoid a potential relapse.
In some circumstances long Covid can meet the definition of a 'disability' and employers should be aware of this. The Equality Act 2010 defines that an individual has a 'disability' if they have "a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on the ability to carry out normal day to day activities". Despite this remains a grey area in the law, the affect of long Covid should be monitored closely by employers. It is important that employers undertake risk assessments and seek advice from Occupational Health if there are any doubts to their employees' health.
Employers now need to adjust and take the edge in a competitive recruitment market. Employers should consider reasonable adjustments such as: Tailoring health and safety policies to ensure colleagues that are affected are supported, providing flexible working arrangements and hours for when individuals may be unwell, adapting workload and ensuring open and honest conversations with employees about their health and working arrangements so they feel supported.
To implement the change, it may require amending employment contracts such as adding new long covid clauses or health and safety polices. These amendments will only reflect your understanding and support of those employees who may be affected by long Covid.
How can we help?
If you are considering updating your contracts to take the competitive edge in the recruitment market and show your understanding of the impact of long Covid, our employment department will be happy to assist by providing our advice and guidance to make these changes where necessary.
If you require advice on any area of employment law please do not hesitate to get in contact with us to discuss how we can assist you. To arrange an appointment or for more information, please contact our dedicated Client Relations Team on 01603 693510 or email us using the 'Make an Enquiry' form on our website.
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*This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or other professional advice.
