Pandemic Preparedness and the Workforce: Employer Experiences with Long COVID.

Background: Although viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, can cause persistent symptoms and functional limitations, the impact of post-viral syndromes on workplaces is uncertain.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of workplaces in Rhode Island in the D&B Hoovers database (September-October 2022). Eligible workplaces had ≥1 contact with a valid email address and ≥2 paid employees. Participants completed a survey on the impact of Long COVID (post-viral syndrome of SARS-CoV-2) on their workplace.

Results: Of 6,149 eligible workplaces, 484 (8%) participated. Awareness of Long COVID among workplace leaders was limited. Overall, 28% of workplaces had any employees report having Long COVID. Of those, 14% had ≥1 employee discontinue employment, 45% had ≥1 employee reduce their workload, and 22% had ≥1 employee request an accommodation due to having Long COVID; 80% of employers reported improvement in employee productivity with accommodations.

Conclusion: Pandemic preparations for the long-term impacts of post-viral syndromes should consider workplace settings.