Long Covid app launched in Wales

An app to help support Long Covid sufferers with their recovery has been launched in Wales.

The app has been developed by the NHS Wales respiratory health group, on behalf of Welsh Government.

More than 100 videos and links to advice from therapists, psychologists and dietitians are included in the app, which allows users to track their progress as they recover from Long Covid.

Long Covid, or Post-Covid Symdrome as it is now officially known, is when people continue to experience symptoms of coronavirus for more than 12 weeks after the virus has left their bodies.

Opera singer Lee David Bowen, from Trethomas, caught coronavirus in February last year, and is still living with the long-term symptoms – which in his case have included “punishing” fatigue, brain fog, a metallic taste in the mouth and heart palpitations.

Hefin David, Senedd Member for Caerphilly, welcomed the launch of the app and said: “This app is a great way to reach a lot of people and provide much needed support for those still recovering.

“Tackling Long Covid will be a challenge that governments across the world must meet.

“I’ve held meetings between sufferers in Caerphilly and the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board to make sure that their concerns are heard. The health board is working on providing further support in our area.”

Wales’ Health Minister, Vaughan Gething, said: “We are still learning about the virus but it is estimated that around one in ten people who have had coronavirus suffer some long-term symptoms.

“The launch of this app, which is the first of its kind, is to reassure those people that there is support available to them and that they are not alone.”

He added: “GPs are still best placed to signpost their patients to appropriate support, carry out testing to look for any treatable symptoms and refer patients to specialist consultants if necessary. This will of course mean that support is still available for anyone without a smart phone”.

The covidrecovery app is available on the Apple and GooglePlay app stores.