ST. LOUIS — Josh Wiese, 45, of St. Louis, was training for ultramarathons before what was likely COVID-19 forced him to quarantine at home in March. Now, he must use an inhaler twice a day and can barely jog two miles. He struggles with his memory and finding the right words.
Stacy Case, 51, of Rochester, Illinois, tested positive for COVID-19 on May 20 and has tested positive nearly every week since then. She needs two negative tests in a row to return to work. Except for fever, Case said her symptoms have never gone away. Normally healthy and active, she continues to suffer with fatigue, congestion and headaches. Just going on a walk causes shortness of breath and chest pain.
John Lincoln, 62, of St. Louis, had just retired as a union carpenter and said he was “in perfect health” when he contracted COVID-19 in April. Lincoln spent over a month in intensive care on a ventilator. He spent another month in a long-term acute care hospital and rehabilitation facility before coming home June 25. Lincoln still needs supplemental oxygen to breathe. His feet and hands are swollen. He doesn’t have the strength to drive his car. His heart rate climbs dangerously if he walks too fast.
For every person who died of COVID-19 complications in the United States, there are more than 10 survivors.
A majority of those who have recovered may have experienced worse hangovers. Countless others, however, are nowhere near their old selves months after being near death in intensive care. And some are still dealing with debilitating problems weeks after getting over the illness at home.
"Likely"? No test? These cases aren't the norm.