A new computational study in the Journal of Infectious Diseases estimates long COVID’s total economic burden will exceed $8 billion between 2025 and the end of 2027. The model—built by researchers using patient-by-patient simulation methods—ties symptom persistence to healthcare costs and major lost-work productivity. The analysis estimates a single long-COVID case costs the U.S. an average of roughly $9,906 to $11,646 per year, with productivity losses accounting for more than 90% of total costs. The report highlights that even as media attention fades, the condition remains persistent and financially consequential. Higher education employers, campus health centers, and disability services face indirect pressure as long COVID limits labor force participation, affecting student employment pathways and workforce readiness programs.