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.

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

  • #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

Reviewed April 2026