The Unseen Pandemic: Long COVID’s Enduring impact on Artists in Oaxaca
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Five years after the initial outbreak, the shadow of COVID-19 continues to loom large, particularly for those grappling with the debilitating effects of long COVID. In Oaxaca, Mexico, two artists share their stories of resilience and adaptation in the face of this ongoing health crisis.
By Archnetys News
Life After the Tsunami: The Reality of Persistent COVID
For Emilia and Tsaria, life has irrevocably changed. Both women,talented artists residing in Oaxaca,now navigate a daily reality marked by chronic symptoms,constant medication,and the ever-present reliance on medical equipment.The term long COVID
or persistent COVID
barely scratches the surface of their experiences.
The Covid was not, it is not and will never be a strong flu,exclaims Tsaria, reflecting on the lasting impact of the virus. She describes her current health as being ravaged by atsunami,a stark contrast to the dismissive narratives that downplay the severity of the illness.Tsaria, Oaxacan Artist
While official statistics on long COVID remain elusive in mexico, anecdotal evidence and emerging research paint a concerning picture. A recent study published in The Lancet estimates that up to 10-20% of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 may experience long-term symptoms, highlighting the urgent need for greater recognition and support for this patient population.
A Life Transformed: Loss, Adaptation, and the Search for Community
Emilia describes the profound sense of loss she feels, mourning the person she once was and the future she had envisioned. Long COVID has cast a long shadow, transforming her into what she describes as a ghost and also a nahuala.
The impact extends beyond physical health,affecting her sense of identity and purpose.
Tsaria emphasizes a crucial, often overlooked aspect of long COVID: the severity of the initial infection does not necessarily correlate with the likelihood of developing long-term symptoms. The most curious thing,
she explains, is that to acquire persistent covid you did not have to be about to die or have a serious infection; persistent covid can even be acquired if you were a slight or asymptomatic patient.
The consequences of long COVID extend far beyond individual health. Both Emilia and Tsaria face meaningful challenges in maintaining their livelihoods and social connections. emilia describes her condition as disabling her by 80 percent,
forcing her to adapt her work habits and rely heavily on support from her partner and friends.
This disease changed my life and shattered it; Refo Cachito to Cachito, even though it disabled me by 80 percent, and being a multisystemic disease, it has me in bed.Emilia,Oaxacan Artist
The lack of official recognition and support for long COVID patients in Mexico exacerbates these challenges. While the INEGI reported a significant increase in mortality rates during the initial years of the pandemic, with COVID-19 as the leading cause, there is a dearth of data on the prevalence and impact of long COVID. This lack of data hinders efforts to allocate resources and develop effective interventions.
Despite the immense challenges thay face, Emilia and Tsaria have found solace and strength in community. Tsaria, now five years into her battle with long COVID, emphasizes the vital role of friends, family, and her partner in providing care and support. She has also channeled her experiences into a creative project, The theatre at home,
using her art to raise awareness and connect with others.
Health will be community or will not be,Tsaria asserts, highlighting the importance of mutual support in the face of systemic neglect. She criticizes the capitalist system for fostering discrimination and exacerbating the challenges faced by those living with chronic illness.Tsaria, Oaxacan Artist
Emilia echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of virtual connections and support networks in navigating the isolation and uncertainty of long COVID. She has also developed coping mechanisms to manage her symptoms and maintain a sense of normalcy, including carrying an emergency kit and keeping detailed records of her health and activities.
Looking Ahead: The Urgent Need for Recognition and Action
The stories of Emilia and Tsaria serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world moves forward, it is crucial that we do not forget those who continue to struggle with the long-term consequences of this virus. Increased awareness, research, and support are essential to ensure that individuals living with long COVID receive the care and recognition they deserve.
The fight for recognition of Long COVID continues, and the voices of those affected, like Emilia and Tsaria, are vital in driving change and fostering a more empathetic and supportive society.
