Health officials in the UK have issued a cautionary alert as the number of long Covid cases continues to climb. Long Covid, also known as post-Covid-19 syndrome, encompasses a range of symptoms that linger for more than four to twelve weeks after the initial infection.
Recent statistics indicate that over two million people are currently grappling with long Covid in the UK. A leading health expert has labeled it as “the forgotten epidemic,” urging citizens to receive the Covid-19 booster vaccine this spring. Specialists are also advising the public to be vigilant about the symptoms of long Covid to ensure early detection.
The Mirror reports that a Covid-19 booster vaccine will be offered to high-risk groups from April to June 2026. The NHS has stated that this initiative aims to safeguard the most vulnerable segments of the population, including individuals over 75, residents of care homes, and those with compromised immune systems.
Mark Faghy, a professor specializing in clinical exercise physiology at Loughborough University, identified key symptoms of long Covid, such as brain fog, breathlessness, and joint and muscle pain. He pointed out that infection rates are on the rise as the virus maintains its presence worldwide.
Professor Faghy also highlighted that post-exertion malaise is a significant indicator of long Covid. He noted, “For some, activities like climbing stairs, taking a shower, or even engaging in a conversation can lead to a relapse, with effects that may persist for weeks.”
Adding to this, Danny Altmann, a professor of immunology at Imperial College London, emphasized to the Daily Mail that, “Long Covid is not an issue that has disappeared, contrary to what some might believe.”
Certain people are encouraged to take up the free NHS booster this spring. The following groups are qualified for the vaccine:
The NHS said: “COVID-19 is more serious in older people and in people with certain underlying health conditions. For these reasons, people aged 75 years and over, those in care homes, and those aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system are being offered a spring dose of COVID-19 vaccine.”
The health service added: “You should be offered an appointment between April and June, with those at highest risk being called in first. You will be invited to have your booster around 6 months after your last dose, but you can have it as soon as 3 months.
“If you are turning 75 years of age between April and June, you do not have to wait until your birthday, you can attend when you are called for vaccination.”
