Survey finds Native Americans report higher rates of long COVID

Research shows Native American adults experienced long COVID at rates higher than the national average

June 11, 2026

Native American adults reported higher rates of long COVID than the overall U.S. population, according to survey findings highlighted by the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota. Long COVID refers to symptoms that persist for weeks or months after an initial COVID-19 infection.

The survey found that 40% of Native American and Alaska Natives respondents reported having long COVID, compared with 30% of U.S. adults overall. According to CIDRAP, the findings were based on data from the California Health Interview Survey from 2021-2023. Researchers said the results underscore disparities in the burden of long COVID among Native American communities.

1.University of Minnesota.

1.University of Minnesota.

We provide the independent reporting that non-Native, extractive outlets often overlook. We give our communities the context and the facts they need to make informed decisions.

Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Founder and Editor in Chief

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we exist to illuminate tribal government decision-making for everyone who cares about transparency about Native issues. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise. Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact.