Los Angeles: World-renowned musician Sérgio Mendes, 83, died while fighting the effects of Long COVID, according to a recent statement by his family.
“For the last several months,” the family wrote, “his health has been challenged by the effects of long term COVID.” Mendes died on September 5, surrounded by his partner, Gracinha Leporace Mendes, and other family members at a hospital in Los Angeles, California.
Throughout his career, the Brazilian musician produced more than 35 albums and was a three-time Grammy winner. He first debuted his music in 1966 and is well- known for introducing bossa nova to the world.
Long COVID is a multi-systemic disease caused by a COVID-19 infection that can be indefinite and fatal. Affecting more than 400 million people around the world, Long COVID is a public health crisis.
Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 5,000 Americans have died of the disease since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CDC’s numbers most likely represent significant undercounts of Long COVID-related deaths, experts say, highlighting a need for better reporting standards and education for the people who fill out death certificates.
According to The Economist, the excess deaths from the continuing pandemic may be over 25 million. The World Health Organization (WHO) states the official toll is over 7 million.
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