Long COVID: What It Is, Who It Affects, and What London Is Doing About It

When people say they still feel sick months after having COVID, they’re not making it up. Long COVID, a condition where symptoms persist for weeks or months after the initial infection. Also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), it’s not rare, not imaginary, and it’s hitting London harder than most admit. This isn’t just about tiredness. People with long COVID report brain fog so bad they can’t hold a conversation, heart palpitations after walking to the mailbox, and crushing fatigue that makes getting out of bed feel like climbing a mountain. The NHS has seen over 1.3 million cases in the UK since 2020, and London’s hospitals are still struggling to keep up with the demand for specialist clinics.

It doesn’t care who you are. Young athletes, office workers, delivery drivers, teachers—they all show up with the same unexplained symptoms. What’s worse? Many are told it’s anxiety or stress. But the data doesn’t lie: brain scans show inflammation, blood tests reveal abnormal immune markers, and heart monitors catch irregular rhythms. It’s not just one thing—it’s a cascade of biological disruptions triggered by the virus. And while the original infection might have been mild, the aftermath can be devastating. Children, too, are affected. Schools in Croydon and Tower Hamlets are reporting students who can’t focus, can’t walk up stairs, and need home tutoring because their bodies won’t recover.

London’s response has been patchy. Some areas have dedicated long COVID clinics with physiotherapists, psychologists, and specialists working together. Others? You’re lucky if you get a referral. The NHS has rolled out online rehab programs, but they’re not enough. People are still waiting six months for appointments. Meanwhile, charities like Long COVID Support and London Health Watch are filling the gaps—hosting peer groups, pushing for policy changes, and helping people navigate the system. What’s clear? This isn’t going away. With new variants still circulating and research showing even vaccinated people can develop long COVID, the number of people affected will keep growing unless we treat this like the public health emergency it is.

If you’re one of the millions still struggling after COVID, you’re not alone. Below, you’ll find real stories, updated guidance, and the latest facts on what’s working—and what’s not—in London’s fight against long COVID. No fluff. Just what you need to know to get help, understand your symptoms, and push for better care.