Perceptions of state measures and media coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic by people with long COVID - A qualitative interview study in Germany

Abstract

Background Since its outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic has been discussed in various media channels. In Germany, state measures such as contact restrictions have been implemented to contain the incidence of infection. Nevertheless, there are many people who have been infected with the coronavirus and are affected by persistent symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or pain. How these people perceive pandemic-related coverage and state measures has not yet been adequately researched. Methods To address this gap, we conducted guided qualitative interviews with 25 adults with long COVID. The interviews were transcribed in terms of content-semantics and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results were then compared with other scientific findings. Results The interviews indicated a high approval of restrictive interventions to protect the public from the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in this sample. About three-quarters of the participants rated the pandemic containment measures as appropriate. However, twelve of the 25 respondents were dissatisfied with the media coverage of the pandemic and protective measures. Besides inconsistent coverage, the discourse on coronavirus vaccination was specifically criticized. Several participants felt that the coverage of this issue was one-sided or noted a lack of government resolve. Furthermore, respondents criticized the repeal of state measures such as the mask obligation in Germany. Conclusions Overall, a need for more consideration of the concerns of people with long COVID in the public discourse on the pandemic becomes apparent. Part of an adapted communication strategy should be: (1) a transparent and target group-related information transfer on the newest findings and regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) an increased presence of the topic, long COVID, in society through various media. Additionally, the relevant public bodies should expand their engagement in this field. Moreover, the findings ot this study could be used as a starting point for a debate on the long-term implementation of measures to protect vulnerable populations. Trial registration: The study is registered in the German register for clinical trials (DRKS00026007).