The World Health Organization (WHO) today issued new clinical guidelines to help address the growing issue of Long COVID, a condition in which patients experience lingering symptoms weeks or even months after recovering from an initial COVID-19 infection. These guidelines come as an increasing number of patients report persistent symptoms such as fatigue, respiratory problems, and cognitive dysfunction.

The guidelines are designed to support healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing the long-term effects of COVID-19, which WHO describes as a significant challenge for global healthcare systems. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, emphasized the importance of recognizing and treating Long COVID as part of a comprehensive response to the pandemic.

“COVID-19 affects more than just the acute phase of illness,” said Dr. Tedros during a press conference. “We are seeing people who have recovered from the virus but continue to suffer for weeks or months, and these guidelines will help clinicians and health workers provide the necessary care.”

Long COVID, also known as Post-COVID Syndrome, affects individuals with varying degrees of severity. Patients may experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, chest pain, joint pain, and memory issues. In some cases, patients suffer from a combination of symptoms, making treatment complex.

The new guidelines recommend a multidisciplinary approach, with healthcare providers offering personalized care based on the patient’s specific symptoms. The document also highlights the need for ongoing research to better understand the long-term impacts of the virus and to develop more effective treatments for patients with Long COVID.

Dr. Janet Diaz, WHO’s Head of Clinical Care, stressed that patients with lingering symptoms should not be ignored and urged health systems to adapt to this emerging healthcare challenge. “The pandemic is evolving, and so is our understanding of the virus’s effects. These guidelines are a critical step in ensuring patients receive the care they need, even after they have technically ‘recovered’ from COVID-19,” she stated.

The WHO guidelines are based on global research and consultations with medical experts and aim to assist both healthcare professionals and patients in navigating the complexities of Long COVID.