Doctors are reiterating the key symptoms of long Covid to the British public amidst an ongoing increase in cases. Over two million individuals in the UK are grappling with long Covid, a condition characterized as “the forgotten epidemic” by experts, which emerges when Covid symptoms persist for more than 12 weeks.
As global circulation of the Covid virus persists, cases of long Covid are on the rise. In response, health authorities are offering a Covid booster vaccination this spring to specific groups, such as older adult care home residents and individuals aged 75 and above by June 30, 2026.
To aid in early detection, experts are highlighting symptoms of long Covid, including brain fog, breathlessness, and joint and muscle pain. Post-exertion malaise, identified as a resurgence of symptoms following minimal physical, mental, or emotional activity, is also a key sign of the condition.
Despite misconceptions that long Covid has dissipated, experts affirm that it remains a pressing issue. Individuals like Stephanie deGiorgio, a mother of two from Kent, who still experiences dizziness and fatigue years after contracting long Covid, serve as reminders of the lingering effects of the condition.
Encouraging uptake of the NHS spring booster, the UK Health Security Agency cautions that protection from previous Covid vaccinations may be diminishing. Eligibility for the Covid-19 vaccination this spring mirrors that of the previous year, including individuals aged 75 and older across the UK nations.
Those aged 75 and above, including individuals turning 75 by June 30, 2026, are eligible for the spring vaccine without having to wait for their specific birthdate.