Many Economists Expect Slow Recovery from COVID-19

Very few economists expect a strong economic recovery worldwide after the coronavirus health crisis ends, a new study found.

The Reuters news agency says it spoke with more than 250 economists and only 15 predicted what is called a "V-Shaped" recovery. A V-shaped recovery is one where the numbers rise quickly after a sharp drop.


FILE - In this April 30, 2020 file photo, a man writes information in front of Illinois Department of Employment Security in Chicago.

Many of those questioned predicted a slower recovery or one with a lot of ups and downs before a long period of economic expansion.

U.S. President Donald Trump has said the United States economy would "skyrocket" as soon as the health crisis passes.

Some economists, however, say they believe a full recovery will take time.

The economists who talked to Reuters say one of the biggest questions is how to fuel economic activity without causing a jump in COVID-19 cases. Health experts are worried about the disease spreading when people once again return to stores, travel, and play.

False Information

Conditions such as the coronavirus give rise to many unproven cures and other advice about fighting or preventing the disease.

The latest false information on social media is the idea that people should take high levels of Vitamin D. Yet health experts say do not do it.

"There have been some news reports about vitamin D reducing the risk of coronavirus. However, there is no evidence that this is the case," notes the British National Health Service.

Too much Vitamin D can cause heart problems, kidney damage and other medical conditions.

Experts say the body creates its own Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. They say the best foods with high levels of the vitamin are fish, such as salmon and tuna, or just a cold glass of fortified milk.

I'm Susan Shand.

The Reuters News Agency reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

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skyrocket – v. to rise very quickly

expose – v. to make something visible by uncovering it

fortified – adj. strengthened with vitamins