Study: Long COVID and ME/CFS Cost Germany 63.1 Billion Euros in 2024
A recent study, published in May 2025, has estimated the annual costs of Long COVID and ME/CFS in Germany for the year 2024 to be a staggering 63.1 billion euros. This figure highlights the significant societal impact of these conditions and underscores the urgent need for increased investment in research and care.
The study, a first to consider Long COVID and ME/CFS together, used a Monte Carlo simulation to calculate the number of people developing these conditions and their recovery rates. It found that around 650,000 people were affected by ME/CFS and an additional 870,000 by Long COVID at the end of 2024. The costs of ME/CFS alone were estimated at 30.9 billion euros, a significant increase from the 2020 figure of 20.9 billion euros. Previous estimates of ME/CFS-related economic damage were almost three times lower, at 7.4 billion euros per year.
The study also highlighted the ongoing nature of these conditions, with the disease burden continuing to increase due to new infections and low recovery rates. Societal costs were calculated using economic methods, considering overall societal losses and different degrees of disability.
The study's findings underscore the urgent need for state investments in research and care for Long COVID and ME/CFS. With the annual costs reaching 63.1 billion euros, the current investments fall far short. Further research and improved care are crucial to mitigate the growing burden of these conditions on German society.
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