COVID-19
The SARS-CoV-2 virus, more commonly known as COVID-19, is a respiratory illness that is spread through the air by droplets. Long COVID refers to the longer term symptoms some patients experience after the initial infection.
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause illness in people. Human coronaviruses are not new, they are common throughout the world and typically cause mild to moderate illnesses. The novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a new respiratory virus first identified in December 2019 as the cause of an outbreak in China. The most common symptoms include fever, tiredness, dry cough, and difficulty breathing. Some patients may also have aches and pains, runny nose, nasal congestions, sore throat or diarrhea.
People with chronic lung conditions are often at a higher risk of developing complications from respiratory infections. The immune system’s ability to fight off infections can be compromised, making it more difficult for the body to recover. This can lead to severe illness, hospitalization, and in some cases, life-threatening situations. Add air pollution and the risk becomes even more serious.
Vaccines work by preparing your immune system to recognize and fight off bacteria and viruses. The COVID-19 vaccination is available year round. If you have had the virus, it is recommended to wait three months after infection to receive your vaccination. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the options that are available to you, including the need for booster vaccinations.
Who should get the COVID-19 vaccine?
The CDC recommends that everyone aged 5 and older receive the 2024-2025 updated COVID-19 vaccine, which targets the KP.2 variant and provides additional protection for the KP.3.1.1 variant. This is especially important for high-risk groups to get vaccinated. These groups include:
- Pregnant women
- Older adults
- Essential workers
- Caretakers exposed to vulnerable groups
- Those with underlying illnesses like asthma, heart disease, or COPD
Long COVID
Long COVID is the diagnosis given to people whose symptoms persist or return in the weeks to months following an initial coronavirus infection. It is also known as post-acute sequelae of COVID-19, post-acute COVID-19, or long haul COVID. Many people start to experience symptoms as soon as just a few weeks after an initial infection, but for others, symptoms may not appear for a few months. Research is ongoing and there is still much to learn, however, studies to date suggest that those at greater risk for developing Long COVID include people who have had a severe case of COVID-19, those who had health conditions prior to a COVID-19 infection, those who are unvaccinated, and people who are prone to inflammation. Even though certain groups may be at a higher risk, Long COVID affects every person differently.
Learn more from the CDC about living with Long COVID.
There is a wide array of symptoms and side effects associated with Long COVID. The hundreds of Long COVID symptoms can be sorted into the following categories:
Respiratory Issues:
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Lung damage
Cognitive dysfunction:
- Chronic fatigue and tiredness
- Difficulty thinking or concentrating
- Dizziness
- Insomnia or sleep issues
Psychological Problems:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood changes
Neurological Problems:
- Fatigue/brain fog
- Headache
- Myalgias
- Loss of taste or smell or other sensory deficits
- Nervous system dysfunction
Other Challenges:
- Malaise (fatigue from over exertion)
- Heart palpitations
- Stomach or chest pain
- Joint or muscle pain