I know someone who has an advanced degree and had a pretty impressive career. I don't think he will ever be able to work a normal job again. He got it in the early days and the hospital told him not to come. Yes, brain damage.
I don't understand what your implication is? If it was the 'early days' what could the hospital have done if there was no vaccine yet and the symptoms were relatively unknown? This comment is just anecdotal fear mongering