Overview
- Participants reported worse disability than 98% of the general Australian population, with 86% meeting a threshold for serious disability compared with 9% nationwide.
- On average, people struggled with daily activities on about 27 days per month and were unable to function on about 18 days.
- Overall quality-of-life scores averaged 23% lower than the general population, with energy levels and social life most affected.
- Most respondents were never hospitalised for their initial illness, and self-rated recovery strongly predicted both disability and quality-of-life measures.
- The authors emphasize the absence of a diagnostic test and variable definitions, and they urge multidisciplinary rehabilitation, pacing support, and workplace accommodations for those affected.