Almost 1 in 10 may have Long Covid, research finds

Almost one in 10 people in England think they could have long Covid, according to analysis of national data.

University of Southampton researchers examined information collected by NHS England that showed 4.8% of people reported having the condition.

The analysis of more than 750,000 responses to the GP Patient Survey also found that 9.1% of people believe they may have long Covid.

Long Covid is a chronic condition induced by Covid-19 infection, with symptoms including fatigue, feeling short of breath, brain fog, and heart palpitations.

The information also shows higher rates of long Covid in deprived areas and people with particular ethnic backgrounds, parents, carers and those with another long-term condition.

Professor Nisreen Alwan, who co-authored the study, said the analysis "adds further evidence of the unfairness of long Covid", with people who are "already disadvantaged in society more likely to be affected".

"It also shows us that many people aren't sure if they have it, and may need diagnosis, treatment and support."

He said the condition was "still a very significant issue impacting individuals, families, the economy and wider society".

"We need to do more to prevent it, diagnose it, and properly support people who are affected by it," he added.

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Source: BBC News, 18 March 2025