Long Covid-19 support is available to help people manage the longer-term effects of their COVID-19 experience. These can include fatigue, breathlessness, low mood, memory problems or joint pain. If your symptoms are severe and are making it difficult to live at home, work or participate in community activities, you may be referred to a clinic specializing in these issues by your GP or healthcare professional. These services can be helpful in managing your symptoms and getting the support you need to get back to living your life again.
For many people, the most common symptom of long Covid is fatigue. Fatigue can make it difficult to complete everyday tasks such as getting dressed, going to the bathroom or climbing stairs. It can also affect how well you sleep and how much energy you have. Fatigue can range from mild to severe, and can last several months after your recovery from the long Covid-19 support illness.
The CDC recommends that you talk with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing long Covid symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, memory problems or joint pain. Your healthcare provider can advise on how to manage these symptoms, including medications and treatments. You may also be referred to a specialist clinic for help with these symptoms, such as a long COVID-19 clinic or a physiotherapy service.
It is important to remember that many of these symptoms are not related to the virus itself, but rather are a reaction to the body’s immune response to the COVID-19 infection. This type of reaction is called Post-Covid Syndrome (or Post-COVID Conditions). Those who have experienced long Covid-19 symptoms often report that these symptoms persist for weeks, months or even years after their initial COVID-19 illness.
Depending on the person, this can have a significant impact on their quality of life and may lead to new health concerns such as anxiety or depression. It can also increase the risk of developing or worsening preexisting health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
The government has published guidance explaining that some people who have long-term post-Covid-19 symptoms may be entitled to assistance or benefits to support them in their daily lives. This includes housing and disability assistance, access to reasonable accommodations to support their needs in work or school and help with health and social care.
Some people with long-term Covid-19 symptoms may find that their symptoms are so severe that they qualify as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other civil rights laws. If you have long Covid-19 symptoms that are affecting your ability to live at home, go to work or school and enjoy your regular activities, please contact a local ADA/civil rights advocate for assistance.
NYSDOH has brought together a wide range of scientists and specialists to formulate the State’s response to long Covid. Learn more about this response here. For more information about the types of symptoms that can cause long-term COVID, visit our Treatment Page.