Why long Covid is a bigger problem than previously thought New data suggests coronavirus continues to affect at least one in five people for more than a month, and nearly one in ten for at least three months. David Cliff/NurPhoto via Getty Images A poster reminding passengers of the requirement to wear face coverings on public transport on Oxford Street in London. New figures have shown that “long Covid” – the symptoms some people suffer for weeks or months after infection – is far more of a problem than early estimates suggested. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows Covid-19 continues to affect at least one in five people for more than a month, and nearly one in ten for at least three months. Lingering coronavirus symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, lack of breath and loss of taste and smell, and can make returning to work difficult.