1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

Every new Covid infection represents a significant risk of developing the debilitating condition known as Long Covid. There are an estimated 18 million Americans currently suffering from Long Covid, with many being too sick to work or care for their families due to severely disabling symptoms like post-exertional malaise, cognitive dysfunction, and orthostatic intolerance. Despite the prevalence and severity of this crisis, there are currently zero proven treatments available. Research funding for Long Covid has been inadequate, and the U.S. government lacks a comprehensive plan to support much-needed clinical trials. This is an unacceptable situation that requires immediate action. I urge you to include a minimum of $1 billion in annual funding for Long Covid research and therapeutic clinical trials in the FY25 budget. Consistent, robust funding gives us the best chance of finding effective treatments for the millions of Americans whose lives have been derailed by this condition. The risk of developing Long Covid has not diminished, as Covid continues to spread and mutate rapidly, with several surges occurring each year. Every infection increases the overall risk, and having a mild initial case does not prevent someone from later developing Long Covid. This condition can impact people of any age or prior health status. Taking action now through aggressive research funding is crucial to stemming this growing public health crisis. Allocating $1 billion annually is a modest investment with the potential to restore health and productivity to millions of Americans suffering from this poorly understood post-viral condition.