Skip to Content Accessibility Information

Maryland Carroll County Health Department

Text Size: A A A

Long COVID

Long COVID, also called post-COVID conditions, refers to the long-term effects of a COVID-19 infection. Long COVID can include a wide range of ongoing health problems; these conditions can last weeks, months, or longer.

  •  Long COVID is more common in people who had severe COVID-19 illness or have other health conditions, but anyone who has been infected can have it, even people who had mild illness or no symptoms from COVID-19.
  • People who are not vaccinated against COVID-19 and become infected may be at higher risk of developing post-COVID conditions compared to people who were vaccinated and had breakthrough infections.
  • As of July 2021, “long COVID,” also known as post-COVID conditions, can be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Learn more: Guidance on “Long COVID” as a Disability Under the ADA
  • Post-COVID conditions are not uncommon; talk to your doctor if you’ve had COVID-19 and are still feeling sick.

 

People who experience post-COVID conditions most commonly report:

  • Tiredness or fatigue that interferes with daily life
  • Symptoms that get worse after physical or mental effort 
  • Fever
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Cough
  • Chest pain
  • Fast-beating or pounding heart (also known as heart palpitations)
  • 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
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Joint or muscle pain
  • Rash
  • Changes in menstrual cycles

The best way to prevent post-COVID conditions is to protect yourself and others from becoming infected. Prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses  Getting vaccinated and getting prompt treatment if you do get COVID can also help prevent long COVID.

Long COVID-19 symptoms can last for weeks, months, or longer. Some people feel better but then their symptoms return. Some people develop new symptoms within a few months. Long COVID can also trigger other health conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease.