Controversy over article summarizing data on vaccines’ protection against long COVID

A recent news article about the protective effect of COVID-19 vaccines against long COVID is causing controversy online in English and Spanish language posts. The article summarizes data from numerous peer-reviewed studies, all of which find that COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduces the risk of long COVID. Some argue that the article’s conclusions are false and suggest that COVID-19 vaccines are the real cause of long COVID. Others claim that long COVID is a cover-up for vaccine injuries.

Risk level: High

Recommendation: These types of claims may discourage patients from getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine. The current surge in COVID-19 cases elevates the risk. It is recommended doctors be prepared to answer questions about COVID-19 vaccines and long COVID. Messaging may emphasize that for the last three years, research has consistently shown that COVID-19 vaccination reduces long COVID risk and that instances of vaccines causing lasting side effects are extremely rare. The CDC continues recommending COVID-19 vaccines for everyone six months and older, because staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines reduces the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization, death, and long COVID.