Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording 'I have long COVID'

Hidden Disabilities card, with the wording 'I have long COVID' and 'Please be patient with me. I have fatigue and can have trouble breathing so may need to rest. I can become confused and may need more time to communicate with you', designed by Tabbers Limited, part of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, 2021

Also known as post-COVID-19 syndrome, long COVID is where symptoms of coronavirus continue for over 12 weeks after having the virus. Symptoms are varied and include breathlessness, cough, tiredness, fever, pain, headaches, 'brain fog', weight loss, rashes and loss of taste and/or smell. Post COVID clinics are available, after being launched in England in December 2020.

Launched at Gatwick airport in 2016, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a symbol that people can choose to wear indicating that they may need additional assistance, space, or time. Partners in the scheme include supermarkets, travel hubs, and the NHS. The sunflower was chosen as a distinctive and easily recognisable sign. The Scheme’s website states “we chose a sunflower as it suggests happiness, positivity, strength as well as growth and confidence.” Wearing the sunflower symbol is an individual choice.