Long COVID Costs, Youth Clinical Interventions & Occupational Safety

❓ Impact and socio-economic costs of long COVID and ME/CFS

In a PQ (E-002992/2026 from Moritz Körner, (Renew)), concerns were raised about the growing wave of chronic diseases triggered by COVID-19, specifically focusing on long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The MEP requested data on the number of people living with these conditions and the associated socio-economic costs across the EU. Responses from the Commission are pending.

❗ Scientific assessment of clinical interventions on minors

In a PQ (E-002509/2026), questions were raised regarding the scientific assessment of clinical interventions on minors. In responses published on 4 August 2026, Commissioner Lahbib stated that healthcare policy, including the development of clinical guidelines and the assessment of evidence supporting treatments, remains the responsibility of Member States and their competent authorities. She clarified that the scientific assessment of clinical interventions on minors falls outside the Commission’s competence under the Treaties, and therefore, the Commission holds no position on related scientific reviews.

❗ Protection of workers from hazardous chemicals

In a PQ (P-002496/2026), inquiries were made regarding the regulatory framework safeguarding workers exposed to hazardous chemicals in factory environments. In responses published on 7 August 2026, Executive Vice-President Mînzatu stated that the EU occupational safety and health (OSH) regulatory framework requires employers to ensure workers’ safety through risk assessments and protective measures. She emphasized that while Member States are primarily responsible for enforcing these national provisions, the Commission actively monitors implementation and takes action against non-conformity, supported by the Senior Labour Inspectors’ Committee and EU-OSHA.

All Parliamentary Questions and Commission Answers are accessible via Policy-Insider.AI.