Monash University researchers will today launch an Australian-first study into the impact of long COVID on victim-survivors' experiences of intimate partner violence.
The Monash Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre-led study will address a critical gap in global research into how long COVID impacts victim-survivors' safety and support needs, despite the first-two years of the pandemic being well-researched.
Professor Kate Fitz-Gibbon is leading the project with Monash Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre (MGFVC) Drs Naomi Pfitzner and Jasmine McGowan and in partnership with the Victorian family violence peak body Safe+Equal.
"Globally there has been no attention paid to the intersection between long COVID and intimate partner violence," Centre director Professor Fitz-Gibbon said.
"This is staggering given past research which documents that victim-survivors of intimate partner violence against women are twice as likely to develop long-term illnesses, including chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.
The project aims to elevate the interpersonal safety and support needs of individuals diagnosed with long COVID to ensure they are not overlooked and to improve outcomes.
Researcher Dr Naomi Pfitzner said the study will make visible the previously unseen impacts of long COVID on individuals living with domestic violence, while Dr Jasmine McGowan said the insights would generate victim-survivor informed policy and practice recommendations.
The study involves a national survey which has opened today. The research team are using the survey to collect insights into the experiences and views of victim-survivors of intimate partner violence who have been diagnosed with long COVID.
"We are seeking to hear from victim-survivors as to how their experience of long COVID has impacted their safety in their intimate partner relationships, as well as their access to and engagement with support services," Professor Fitz-Gibbon said.
"Victim-survivors are invited to complete a short online anonymous survey and to participate in an interview with the research team if they would like," Dr Pfitzner said.
Defined by the World Health Organisation as the continuation, or development of new symptoms three months after the initial COVID infection, global studies estimate that between 10-20 per cent of people infected with COVID go on to develop long COVID symptoms such as respiratory issues, cognitive dysfunction, and fatigue.
This project, funded by the Monash Faculty of Arts, will generate critically needed evidence on the intersection between long COVID and intimate partner violence.
To participate in the online survey for victim-survivors of intimate partner violence with long COVID, please click here.
