Understanding the Long Haulers of COVID-19: Mixed Methods Analysis of YouTube Content

The study analyzed 152 YouTube videos and 2,845 comments to understand the experiences of COVID-19 long haulers, focusing on symptoms, perceptions, and support. It identified 28 themes, with negative comments often highlighting misinformation and healthcare system issues, while positive comments appreciated helpful content and community building. Long haulers frequently manage symptoms independently, using alternative remedies and expressing distrust in pharmaceuticals. Sentiment analysis showed news videos received more negative comments, while medical videos were viewed more positively. The study underscores the need for better understanding and support for long haulers within the healthcare system and highlights the potential of social media analysis to inform public health strategies.