While most people who have COVID-19 recover within a few weeks, some have prolonged symptoms which has been called post-COVID-19 syndrome. These prolonged symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, joint pain, chest pain, loss of taste or smell, fast heartbeat, muscle pains or headaches, and even memory problems or hair loss.

Research has found that though the COVID-19 virus largely affects the lungs, other organs can be damaged by it as well. Most of the damage scientists have seen so far has been concentrated to the heart, lungs, and brain, including damage to the heart muscle, scar tissue in the lungs, and strokes and seizures. The virus can also increase the likelihood of dangerous blood clots in the heart, lungs, legs, liver, and kidneys.

It is recommended that those with COVID-19 are closely monitored after their recovery for any complications related to organ damage.

Updated 7 December 2020