Long Covid clinical evaluation, research and impact on society

Summary:

A study of Long Covid experts and patients to define, diagnose and treat Long Covid. Plus deciding on future research needs and how Long Covid impacts society.

Ewing, A.G. (2025) summarised  by Yesenia J M Camacho

Introduction

Long Covid is a condition where people continue to feel ill long after catching COVID-19. This study brought together experts and patients with experience of Long Covid to agree on the best ways to define, diagnose, treat it and to guide future research.

Summary

A group of experts from 28 countries including doctors, researchers, and people living with Long Covid took part in a 3-round survey to build agreement on key topics. They focused on five main areas:

•          Defining Long Covid

•          Diagnosing Long Covid

•          Treating Long Covid

•          What future research is needed

•          How Long Covid affects society

The group agreed on 187 important statements. They agreed that Long Covid impacts many body parts, including the nervous system, and that people might not notice symptoms straight away. The group stressed that we need good biomarkers (lab tests) to help understand and better treat the disease. Many Long Covid symptoms are missed or not recognised because doctors and the public do not fully understand it. Some people might develop new health problems or worsening of old ones after COVID-19, but these aren’t always linked to Long Covid. Better biomarkers (lab tests) are needed to help spot Long Covid and related issues early on.

Long Covid affects different body systems (heart, brain, immunity, hormones etc.), causing long-term health problems. It can disrupt education, work and daily life. Children with Long Covid may have learning difficulties and developmental delays. Long Covid causes large economic problems. For instance people may not be able to work and lose income, plus need long-term healthcare. Therefore poorer and vulnerable groups are hit harder. Governments and healthcare organisations need to invest more in public health, support affected people, and reduce COVID-19 spread such as improving indoor air quality. Regular health checks are vital, especially for healthcare workers who support patients with, or potentially have, COVID-19. Preventative healthcare is crucial.

Strengths and limitations of the study

Strengths:

•          Involved a large, diverse group of global experts

•          Used a clear and fair method (Delphi) to get unbiased opinions

•          Covered diagnosis, treatment, and research needs.

Limitations:

•          Not enough randomised trials yet

•          Results may change as Long Covid science evolves

•          Less data from low-income countries or places with limited healthcare.

Conclusion

There are no proven treatments or clear guidelines for Long Covid yet. No single therapy works for everyone, and more high-quality studies are urgently needed. Experts agree that Long Covid care should be tailored to each person, with a team of specialists working together. Vaccines lower the risk of Long Covid, preventative healthcare and improving indoor air quality are crucial.

Read the study here