Five years ago, Jenene Crossan became one of the first New Zealanders to contract Covid-19, a pivotal moment that changed her life in ways she never anticipated. In a recent interview with Checkpoint, she reflected on her experience battling the virus and the lasting impact it has had on her health and well-being.
Crossan’s journey with Covid-19 began during a business trip to the United Kingdom, just before New Zealand closed its borders. Upon returning home, she fell ill and soon found herself hospitalized, grappling with the full force of the virus’s symptoms. As she vividly recalls, “There’s nothing like being really sick in the spotlight, doing it when an entire country is locked down and everybody is afraid at the same time, not knowing what they’re supposed to do.”
The aftermath of her infection was equally challenging, with lingering health issues that persisted long after the virus had cleared from her system. Crossan experienced a range of complications, from flare-ups of pre-existing conditions like endometriosis to mysterious gut-related problems believed to be linked to the virus residing in her system. Despite her resilience, the toll on her immune system was profound, leading to chronic fatigue and autoimmune conditions that continue to impact her daily life.
In response to her ongoing health struggles, Crossan founded the Long Covid Support Aotearoa group, providing a lifeline for others grappling with the long-term effects of the virus. Her dedication to supporting fellow survivors underscores the resilience and compassion that have emerged from the challenges of the pandemic.
As Crossan reflects on her journey, she grapples with uncertainty about the future, acknowledging the profound impact Covid-19 has had on her life trajectory. The resilience she has shown in the face of adversity serves as a powerful reminder of the human stories behind the statistics, shedding light on the enduring legacy of the pandemic.
### Expert Insights: Navigating the Long-Term Impact of Covid-19
Professor Michael Plank, a leading expert in Covid-19 modelling, offers a sobering assessment of the ongoing challenges posed by the virus. Reflecting on the past five years, he notes that while Covid-19 has become a familiar presence in our lives, its evolution continues to pose risks and uncertainties for the future.
Plank emphasizes the importance of population immunity through vaccinations and previous infections in mitigating the impact of new variants. However, he also highlights the potential threats posed by emerging strains, such as the H591 avian influenza, which could spark another pandemic if left unchecked. The need for vigilance and preparedness, he argues, is essential to safeguarding against future health crises.
Looking ahead, Plank urges policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritize investments in infrastructure and health systems to better respond to future pandemics. The lessons learned from Covid-19, he suggests, serve as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive planning and readiness in the face of evolving health threats.
As we mark five years since the first confirmed case of Covid-19 in New Zealand, the reflections of Jenene Crossan and Professor Michael Plank offer a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of the pandemic on individuals and communities alike. Their stories underscore the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit in the face of unprecedented challenges, serving as a testament to the collective strength and compassion that have emerged in the wake of adversity.