The partners of Health and Care Portsmouth have launched a campaign targeted at helping those with Long COVID after national estimates suggest around 7,000 people in Portsmouth may be experiencing self-reported Long COVID symptoms.
The ONS study, published on 3 September, found that an estimated 2.3 million people in the UK are experiencing self-reported Long COVID symptoms. That translates to 3.5% of the overall population.
Using this data from the Office for National Statistics, as well as infection rates locally, Health and Care Portsmouth partners are working to establish estimated prevalence in the city.
As part of this work, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the symptoms, how people can manage their illness, and what support is available to people in Portsmouth.
Helen Atkinson, Director of Public Health, said:
“Long COVID can have a long-lasting and debilitating affect on people’s lives. It is our aim that with this campaign, more people will know how they can access support and enable them to live healthy and independent lives.
“We are learning more about Long COVID all the time, and these national figures help give us an indication of how many people might be affected in Portsmouth.
“We are working together to make sure there is support for people to complement the amazing work being done by our NHS.”
Mark Compton, Director of Transformation for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board, developed Long COVID over two years ago, he said:
“Living with Long COVID has been life changing and at times extremely debilitating. It feels like losing a part of yourself, there are things I used to do that I can’t do anymore.
“Feeling unwell every day is hard, but it does fluctuate and there are better days.
“Our aim with this campaign was to let people know that they’re not alone, there is support out there, and it can get better. If you’re experiencing symptoms, or know somebody that is, you can find more information on our website.”
Our dedicated Long COVID page has information on symptoms to look out for, when and how to seek medical and social support, and how you can manage Long COVID in your day to day life.