Why are COVID-19 patients referred to as "long haulers"?

The term "long haulers" refers to individuals who continue to experience lingering health problems after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection has resolved. Many of these patients exhibit a variety of symptoms that can persist for weeks or even months following their initial recovery from the virus. These symptoms can include fatigue, difficulty breathing, cognitive issues (often referred to as "brain fog"), joint pain, and other health complications that significantly affect their quality of life.

This phenomenon has largely emerged from clinical observations and studies documenting that, although many patients may recover from the immediate effects of COVID-19, they can continue to face long-term health challenges. Thus, the term aptly characterizes this subset of patients who endure a lengthy journey of recovery, unlike others who may recover without ongoing issues or those who only experience symptoms during their hospital stay. The focus on the prolonged nature of their symptoms is what gives rise to the "long hauler" label, distinguishing them from patients who experience a standard or uncomplicated recovery.