Long COVID

Long COVID is a multi-organ condition affecting some people post-initial COVID-19 illness. Majority of the people with COVID-19 feel better in a few days or weeks. But for some individuals, COVID-19 symptoms can last up to 12 months or longer. These symptoms may be ongoing like a cough that hasn’t gone away, or new symptoms that start weeks or months after being sick from COVID-19.

Research suggests that long COVID is more common in:

• People aged 35 to 69
• Women
• Smokers
• People who have not had a COVID-19 vaccine
• People with chronic health conditions
• People with obesity
• People who had a severe COVID-19 infection (requiring hospitalisation)
• People who have had COVID-19 multiple times

Reduce your risk of long COVID by being up to date with your Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, wearing a face mask and meeting people in well-ventilated spaces.

There is no single test to confirm if you have long COVID. See your general practitioner (GP) if you have symptoms of long COVID. Your GP may refer you to a specialist for further assessment, if required.

For more information, head to Coronavirus Victoria webpage.