FAQ's about Paediatric Long Covid
Who is this for?
Children and young people who want to know more about Long Covid.
Anyone of any age can get Long Covid. Some people recover quickly, while others experience symptoms for much longer.
Researchers are working to understand why different people have different experiences.
Research studies show that Long Covid can affect around 7 to 20 in every 100 children and young people.
If you think you are experiencing symptoms talk to a trusted adult or healthcare professional.
There is support that can help you manage your symptoms and help you feel better over time.
Our 'Statistics' page has more information.
The symptoms of Long Covid can vary significantly from person to person and may change over time. Some children and young people might experience a few mild symptoms, while others could have a more complex mix of symptoms and challenges that greatly impact their daily lives. Some studies have listed over 200 potential symptoms; however, the most common are:
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Extreme exhaustion (fatigue)
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Difficulty concentrating (brain fog/cognitive dysfunction)
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Dizziness
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Irregular heartbeat
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Joint or muscle pain
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Shortness of breath
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Sleep disturbances
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Stomach pain, nausea, or loss of appetite
If you are experiencing symptoms that impact your daily life, please seek advice from a healthcare professional or trusted adult.
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Most children do get better over time, but for some, it can take longer. Recovery is different for everyone. Some children feel better in a few weeks or months, while others may have symptoms that last longer.
The good news is that there are ways to manage symptoms, day to day life, and your sense of well-being. If you’re feeling unwell for a long time after COVID-19, talk to a trusted adult or healthcare professional. You’re not alone, and help is available.
There are different ways to help manage Long Covid symptoms. Everyone is different, so what helps one person might not work the same for another. Here are some things that can make a difference:
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Pacing – Balance activity and rest to avoid feeling worse after doing too much. Take things one step at a time and listen to your body.
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Nutrition and hydration – Eating nutritious meals and drinking plenty of water are recognised as healthy strategies in general. Basic nutritional advice may not be helpful in all cases.
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Good sleep routine – Getting enough sleep is important to support recovery and general health. Many children with Long Covid experience sleep disturbances, and basic sleep advice may not be helpful in all cases.
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Skilled medical support – Working with trained and experienced healthcare professionals to treat and manage symptoms effectively.
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Keep talking – Talking to friends, family, or a trusted adult can help.
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Activities that bring you joy - Like sitting in nature, reading, drawing, crafts, journaling or listening to music might make things easier.
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A paediatrician is a doctor who specialises in looking after children and young people. They focus on childhood illnesses and health problems, this is called paediatric medicine.
Paediatricians understand the conditions that affect growing bodies. They can help diagnose illnesses, give treatment, and support recovery.
Think of a paediatrician as a doctor whose main job is to keep babies, children, and teenagers healthy, and to help when they are not.
It’s okay to feel worried, frustrated, or alone, but you don’t have to go through it by yourself. There are people who care and want to help. You can talk to:
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A trusted adult – This could be a parent, caregiver, teacher, school counsellor, or family member who listens and supports you.
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A doctor or healthcare professional – They can help you understand your symptoms and find ways to feel better.
A support organisation – Groups that understand what you're going through can offer advice or just someone to talk to. (See the list in the next FAQ below.)
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Yes! Many children and young people find it helpful to talk to others going through similar experiences.
Connect through:
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LCK Teens Connected – Weekly online sessions for teens aged 13-17 led by young people (18-25) who also live with Long Covid. A time to catch up and play low-energy social games. READ MORE
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LCK Discord Server – A dedicated and inclusive online platform tailored for peer-to-peer support, information, and a sense of community for teens aged 13-17 impacted by Long Covid. READ MORE
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Support for Younger Children – Sessions for children aged 12 and below will be offered in the future. In the meantime, many younger members enjoy attending the LCK Choir.
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What is Long Covid?
The Quick Definition
Long Covid is the name used to describe children and young people who still have symptoms more than two months after catching COVID-19.
You might also hear it called:
• Post-COVID Condition
• Post-Acute Covid Syndrome (PACS)
• Paediatric Long Covid
This means that even though the COVID infection has gone, the body hasn’t fully recovered. Some young people still feel unwell for weeks, months or years afterwards.
Key facts about Long Covid
Long Covid can affect adults, children and young people.
Symptoms can last for weeks, months, or longer, and may improve or worsen over time.
Doctors and scientists are working on understanding Long Covid, and which treatments can improve daily life, and support recovery.
Support is available, lot's of people have Long Covid, you are not alone.
WHO Case Definition (2023)
For children and adolescents, Long Covid is defined as the persistence (ongoing) of symptoms lasting beyond two months after a confirmed or probable COVID-19 infection. This means that even after the acute (infectious) phase of the virus, some young people may continue to face health challenges. WHO Case Definition
You Are Not Alone
If you are reading this, you or someone you know may have new or ongoing symptoms after a confirmed, or suspected, COVID-19 infection. Long Covid is a condition where symptoms continue, or develop, after the infectious part of the illness.
Thanks to research, and the voices of young people speaking up, we’re learning more every day. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, support is available, and there are ways to manage symptoms and protect your health.
Still Have Questions?
Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions about Long Covid
Mental Health Matters
You are not alone, and there are people who can help.
Support services vary depending on where you live.
Use this link to search for support in your country: Child Helpline International
Alternatively, try searching online for youth mental health support in your country or speak to a trusted adult, teacher, or doctor who can help you find local resources.
If you live in the UK and need someone to talk to, here are some trusted support services:
The Mix
Helpline and live chat service for young people (ages 10-25). Call 0808 808 4494 (available daily from 3 pm-12 am) or visit The Mix
Young Minds Textline
24/7 free text support for mental health worries. Text YM to 85258 for confidential help.