COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a staggering impact on health and the economy—from lives lost and long-term illness and disability, to disruption in the labor market and supply chains, to a mental health crisis and lost instructional time for children and adolescents. Many of these negative outcomes disproportionately affect women, older adults, disabled individuals, and people of color. The Center for American Progress Action Fund is committed to supporting continued preparedness and response efforts that proactively protect the public from threats such as COVID-19. The United States must continue to monitor disease trends; plan and invest in vaccines, tests, and treatments; continue research and development on issues such as long COVID and updated strategies to combat new variants; educate the public on ways to reduce risk; and strengthen the public health system. It must also address the persistent health and economic consequences of COVID-19 through policies such as paid sick leave, access to health care, workplace and school accommodations and safety standards, and mental health supports. These investments are critical to protect the nation from illness, disability, death, and economic disruption.