Paediatric Long Covid
Long Covid causes ongoing or relapsing symptoms that disrupt children’s daily lives, education, and wellbeing.
Symptoms vary by individual and age: younger children may experience sleepiness or poor appetite; school-aged children often report concentration issues or stomach pain; adolescents frequently face fatigue, pain, and memory problems.
Recent studies estimate Long Covid affects up to 10% to 20% of children post-infection, and show that children are twice as likely to develop Long Covid after a second infection.
The World Health Organization recognises its impact on children’s development, learning, and daily functioning.
Despite its prevalence and impact, Long Covid has not yet received the structured recognition or support given to other chronic paediatric conditions. None of the specialist NHS hubs are funded beyond March 2026.
There are no approved condition specific treatments. However, symptom-based treatments are available but access to these and general care or support remains inconsistent.
Long Covid Kids
Long Covid Kids is the only UK-registered charity representing children, young people, and families living with Long Covid. Founded in 2021 by parents with lived experience, our mission is to improve the lives of affected children through support, research, education, and advocacy.
We provide support and signposting, raise awareness, share evidence, and collaborate with clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to ensure children’s needs are recognised across health, education, and social care. Our campaigns on clean air, infection prevention, and inclusive education aim to create safe environments where every child can recover, learn, and thrive.