Long COVID Definition

Long COVID includes a wide range of long-term health issues that can occur in people who have been infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Long COVID is more likely to develop in people who had severe COVID-19 illness, but anyone who has had a COVID-19 infection can develop long COVID. Each time a person is infected with SARS-CoV-2, there is a risk of developing long COVID.

Some people who have had COVID-19 may be more likely to develop new health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, blood clots, or conditions involving the brain and nervous system.

Share these graphics and sample social media posts to help raise awareness about long COVID:

  • #DYK: You can lower your risk for long COVID if you #GetVaccinated against COVID-19? Learn more: www.nfid.org/covid-19
  • Anyone who has had a COVID-19 infection can develop long COVID. Learn how to help lower your risk: www.nfid.org/covid-19
  • The best way to prevent long COVID is to protect yourself from getting infected. #GetVaccinated, get tested, and get treated to help #StopTheSpread of #COVID-19