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How long does the new strain of COVID last?

How the structures involved in Long COVID differ from normal
Illustration: How the structures involved in Long COVID differ from normal

Short answer

A new COVID-19 strain may cause symptoms for several days or longer, but duration varies; worsening illness or persistent symptoms need medical advice.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Course
Varies between people
Recovery
Can be gradual
Persistent symptoms
May need clinical review

Why recovery differs

Symptoms can change during an infection and do not follow an identical timetable for everyone. Fever and general aches may settle before cough, tiredness, or altered smell and taste. A person can feel better and then worsen, particularly when another health problem is present. Persistent fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or low mood after infection can warrant assessment for Long COVID.

Caring for yourself

Rest, drink enough fluid, and return to normal activity gradually as your energy improves. Follow local advice about staying away from others while infectious, and ask promptly about treatment if you have risk factors for severe COVID-19. A clinician can advise whether testing or examination is needed.

Urgent warning signs

Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, blue or grey lips, new confusion, or inability to stay awake. Contact a clinician if fever persists, breathing becomes harder, symptoms worsen after improvement, or joint pain, loss of smell, or loss of taste continues.

Questions for your doctor

Ask how your symptoms fit the expected course, when you can resume activities, and whether your medical history changes the need for treatment or follow-up.

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City
See every listing in Abu Dhabi

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Can symptoms last longer than the initial infection?

Yes. Some people have ongoing symptoms after the acute illness and should discuss them with a clinician.

Does a new strain always cause more severe illness?

Not necessarily. Severity depends on the person, immunity, and other health factors as well as the virus.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.