Too soon to say if this is long Covid (5 weeks)?

[Lowenna1469]

Double vaccinated and booster a few days ago. Tested positive for Covid nearly 5 weeks ago and, although, negative results since then, feel utterly exhausted, drained and ongoing muscular issues are even more painful. Some things have improved, for example, I don't cough much now and I never lost my sense of smell or taste.

Is it safe to say that symptoms of lethargy and weakness can be quite prolonged? It's too soon to say that this is long Covid? I managed a couple of days back at work earlier this week (after four weeks of wfh) but since the booster have been unable to even set foot outside the door. The skin tenderness and pain from the booster has subsided but I'm left with such weariness and weakness that I'm getting a little anxious in case this goes on much longer.

Perhaps the 4/5 week Covid duration is just a rule of thumb?

I was pretty ill with covid and at 5 weeks was still very unwell. It was a long slow recovery but I was fully back to normal by 3 months.

Just to add I posted that to reassure you that you are not automatically destined to have long covid if you're still ill at 5 weeks. I think the official definition is still having symptoms after 12 weeks.

I thought it was 12 weeks not 5 weeks

Get well soon! I think it’s too soon to say it’s long Covid.

I still felt terrible at 5 weeks but things really started to improve around week 8. I only have some minor symptoms now at week 12. Everyone is different unfortunately.

Long Covid is diagnosed if you have symptoms after 12 weeks

The lethargy wears off very slowly, and you'll have days where you have boundless energy, only to hit hit with fatigue afterwards that can last for days.

Take it easy. Don't try to rush recovery.

I'm in week 14 and feel pretty much back to normal, except for my legs. My legs ache if I do too much. They ache if I sit too long or stand too long. And the brain fog still comes and goes.

It will get better, just take it a day at a time.

I thought you couldn't have booster until 5 months after having Covid? You would already have had enough antibodies not to need a booster. I am no expert but could that be making it hit you hard?
I am 8 weeks post Covid and it has taken me until now to get back to somewhat normal. Will not receive booster now here in Ireland until February.

I have similar timings & issues to you OP & definitely feel worse since having my booster jab this week. You can have your booster 28 days after you tested positive, I wish I had waited longer

The last time I was really unwell was September 2019. I remember ringing my GP over a month later because I thought I was never going to feel right again. My GP gave me a stern but kindly lecture about being post viral and it was normal.
Obviously keep an eye but try not to worry too much yet. Rest, rest and more rest.