One in 25 people who have suffered from coronavirus will go on to develop long Covid, according to a new study. While previous research from King's College London's shows the Omicron strain is less likely to cause long-lasting symptoms, a notable percentage will feel ongoing effects for more than four weeks.
The news comes as Covid cases continue to rise in Scotland and all over the UK. Hospital admissions are also on the rise, with high proportions of those being admitted to intensive care units.
Dr Claire Steves, from King's College London, said: "The Omicron variant appears substantially less likely to cause long Covid than previous variants. But, still, one in 25 people who catch Covid-19 go on to have symptoms for more than four weeks.
"Given the numbers of people affected it is important that we continue to support them at work, at home and within the NHS."
Using data from the ZOE Health Study website, researchers determined that the odds of experiencing long Covid were between 20-50 percent less during the Omicron period than the Delta period. However, the UK Office of National Statistics (ONS) estimated that the number of people with long Covid increased from 1.3 million in January 2022 to two million as of May, reports Wales Online.
As Covid rates are climbing once more in the UK, the possibility of developing long Covid is also increased. The NHS cautions symptoms can range from shortness of breath, chest tightness, insomnia, to joint pain.
For some people, they might experience fatigue, brain fog – defined as problems with memory and concentration – or heart palpitations. It is advisable to contact your doctor if you are concerned about lingering symptoms that have not shifted for at least four weeks after you caught Covid.
Your doctor could check your blood pressure, heart rate, and request blood tests to check for any other underlying health conditions.
"If the symptoms are having a big impact on your life, you may be referred to a specialist rehabilitation service," the NHS notes. "These services can help manage your symptoms and help you recover."
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
