The Department of Health (DOH) said that there is no available test yet to diagnose “long- Covid.”

The World Health Organization (WHO) defined long-Covid or post Covid-19 condition as a “constellation of long-term symptoms that some people experience after they have had Covid-19.”

“To date, there is no test to diagnose long Covid,” the DOH said in a statement on Sunday, May 22.

Some of the symptoms of long Covid include fatigue, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, joint pain, among others, the DOH said.

“These can be felt usually three months after being infected with the Covid-19 virus, may last for at least two months, and cannot be explained by other conditions,” the state health agency said.

“Symptoms may be new onset after one has already recovered, or may continue from the initial Covid-19 episode,” it added.

The DOH said it is best to consult a doctor or healthcare provider “for first aid.” Meanwhile, if one experiences difficulty breathing (catching breath, can only say one word), severe chest pain, lightheadedness, or fainting, the DOH advised to “immediately go to the nearest emergency room.”

The importance of following the minimum public health standards and vaccination were once again highlighted by the DOH.

“The most effective way to avoid long Covid is to avoid getting Covid-19 in the first place. We know what works: continue practicing minimum public health standards (wear the best fitting mask, isolate when sick, ensure good airflow), and also get vaccinated as soon as possible, and boosted once eligible,” the DOH said.