Long COVID

Most people who have COVID-19 completely recover, but some have lasting symptoms and health problems.

Long COVID, also referred to as Post-COVID Conditions (PCC) or chronic COVID, refers to a wide range of symptoms that develop during or after COVID-19 illness and continue for several weeks or months.

Symptoms can include fatigue, breathing problems, muscle pain, and trouble focusing or remembering tasks.

The causes of Long COVID are not yet fully understood, which can make diagnosis and treatment challenging. Long COVID is—and will continue to be—an active area of research.

If you think you have Long COVID, talk to your healthcare provider. CDC’s website has information on how to prepare for the appointment, including a checklist (PDF: English or Spanish).

For the most up-to-date information on symptoms, resources (including post-COVID care centers), and research visit:

  • CDC
  • NIH (including clinical trials and studies)
  • VDH (including post-COVID care centers)
  • Survivor Corps (including post-COVID care centers)

About This Guidance

These recommendations are based on CDC recommendations for preventing respiratory illnesses - like COVID-19, flu, and RSV - in most people. The updated CDC guidance (March 2024) provides a unified approach to addressing risks from these common respiratory viral illnesses.

You may need to work with people in your household and follow additional policies and guidance for other settings (like employer, school, nursing home, daycare, and/or government).

If you or people in your household are at high risk for serious illness from respiratory infections, ask your healthcare provider about more ways to stay protected.

 

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