Facts About Long COVID

What is Long COVID?

Long or post-COVID is new, returning, or ongoing health problems people experience after being infected with COVID-19. While many people with COVID-19 get better within a few days or weeks, some develop long-term health problems. Anyone who was infected with COVID-19 can experience long COVID.

What are the symptoms of Long COVID?

The most common symptom of Long COVID are fever and fatigue, which can be debilitating. Other systems include:

  • Difficulty thinking or concentrating (sometimes referred to as “brain fog”), headache, sleep problems, dizziness when you stand up (lightheadedness), pins-and-needles feelings, change in smell or taste

  • Stomach pain

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, cough, chest pain

  • Joint pain, muscle aches and pains

If your symptoms are severe or unmanageable, see your healthcare provider for guidance on how to best cope with long COVID.

You may have heard about Long COVID, but you're not sure what it is or if you have it.

How do I know if I have Long COVID?

Currently, there is no way to determine if you have Long COVID.

If you think you have Long COVID, speak to your healthcare provider. They will review your health history, including a positive test result or symptoms of COVID-19, in addition to doing a health examination for a diagnosis of post-COVID conditions.

While anyone can experience Long COVID, certain groups of people are more likely to develop post-COVID conditions. These groups include:

  • People who weren't vaccinated against COVID-19

  • People with underlying health conditions

  • People who experienced severe COVID-19 illness, especially those who were hospitalized or needed intensive care

  • People who experienced multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS) during or after COVID-19 illness

Who's more likely to get Long COVID?

It's difficult to say how Long COVID will last and what the long-term effects may be. Some people have reported feeling better after a few weeks, while others have continued to experience symptoms for months.

How will Long COVID affect me and my loved ones?

What can I do if I think I have Long COVID?

If you think you might have Long COVID, there are a few things you can do:

  • Keep track of your symptoms and how long they last. This can help you and your healthcare provider understand what you’re experiencing.

  • Get plenty of rest and exercise regularly. Taking care of yourself will help your body recover from the virus.

  • Eat a healthy diet and avoid tobacco and alcohol. These substances can make symptoms worse.

  • Stay in touch with your friends and family. Talking to loved ones can help reduce stress and anxiety.

  • See your healthcare provider if your symptoms are severe or you’re having trouble managing them.

If your symptoms are severe or unmanageable, see your healthcare provider for guidance on how to best cope with long COVID.

How can I protect myself from Long COVID?

The best way to protect yourself from Long COVID is to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination will help protect you from severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

Vaccines are free.