Summary of Active and Prospective Long-COVID Research in Wales
Summary of planned or current research into Long COVID
This report provides a summary of long COVID research in Wales as of November 2021. There may be opportunities for people with long COVID or health professionals to take part in this research.
Long COVID is the term used to describe symptoms people experience weeks or months after getting COVID. These symptoms include persistent shortness of breath, tiredness, muscle aches and mood disturbance and can have a big impact on patients.
In October 2021, 1.2 million people in the UK were estimated to still be experiencing symptoms four weeks after getting COVID. More than half of these said these symptoms affected their day to day lives.
The condition remains poorly understood and there is a need for further research.
Long COVID is used to describe a wide range of conditions. The causes are thought to be many and uncertain. There is no test for Long COVID and no treatment that can be clearly shown to have worked.
Long COVID affects both the individual and wider society as it can lead to inability to work and loss of productivity. As symptoms vary, patients need different investigations and treatments.
More research is needed so that local services can be provided according to need, and so that the treatments given can be based on evidence of what works. Better understanding of the causes of long COVID will also help to avoid complications of the illness.
If you are interested in finding out more or whether you can take part, go to the study website or ask your GP to find out the current situation.
Further information and support for prospective participants, professionals and researchers can be found via the Health and Care Research Wales Support and Delivery Service.
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