Warnings the health system must prepare to support sufferers of 'Long Covid'

Clinics have been set up overseas to help Covid patients managing symptoms, months after their diagnosis.

Persistent problems can include fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches, brain fog, anxiety - and damage to the heart and lungs.

A cardio-respiratory physiotherapist says urgent funding must go towards setting up clinics here, with multi-disciplinary teams.

Otago University's Doctor Sarah Rhodes says that must include psychologists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists.

She says physiotherapists are well placed for managing post-exertion malaise and breathing pattern dysfunction.