A new study reveals that five years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 1 in 10 people remain uncertain about whether they have long COVID—a condition characterized by persistent symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and muscle pain. The findings, based on a large-scale NHS England survey of more than 750,000 people, also show that nearly 1 in 20 individuals report experiencing long COVID, highlighting its ongoing impact on public health.
Long COVID, a chronic post-viral condition, can severely affect daily life, causing extreme exhaustion and limiting the ability to work or engage in normal activities. Experts warn that lack of awareness and stigma may prevent many individuals from seeking a diagnosis or receiving proper care.
The study, published in Health Expectations, found that certain groups were more likely to report long COVID, including:
- Individuals living in deprived areas
- Women, parents, and caregivers
- Members of the LGBTQ+ community
- Certain ethnic minorities, such as White Gypsy, Irish Traveller, and mixed or multiple ethnic groups
- People with pre-existing health conditions
On the other hand, young people, men, heterosexual or non-binary individuals, and people from backgrounds including Indian, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Black, or Arab communities were more likely to be unsure whether they had long COVID.
Experts suggest that many people remain unaware of their condition due to the absence of a formal diagnosis. “If you are not told you have long COVID, you may not recognize it yourself,” explained Professor Nisreen Alwan from the University of Southampton. Additionally, societal stigma surrounding long-term symptoms after a mild COVID-19 infection may discourage individuals from discussing their health concerns or seeking medical attention.
Research published in Nature Medicine estimates that long COVID affects approximately 400 million people worldwide, contributing to an economic burden of $1 trillion annually. Despite these staggering figures, public and political discourse on long COVID has waned, with many calling for a “return to normal.”
However, experts emphasize the need for continued healthcare planning, medical research, and increased awareness. “Long COVID widens health inequalities,” said Alwan, calling for better access to diagnosis, treatment, and support, particularly for disadvantaged communities.
As millions worldwide continue to suffer from long COVID, researchers stress the importance of sustained attention to this public health crisis. Many long-term sufferers have lost their jobs and struggle with daily life due to the condition. Greater awareness among healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public is essential to ensure that those affected receive the care and support they need.
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