Children with long-term Covid can qualify for special education, U.S. Department of Education says

Children with long-term symptoms of Covid-19 may be eligible for special education services and other classroom accommodations, according to federal guidelines released Monday.

In its announcement, the U.S. Department of Education said that schools must provide extra services for children who are experiencing fatigue, dizziness, difficulty concentrating or other symptoms for at least four weeks after they were initially infected with the coronavirus. Colleges and universities also must provide accommodations for students with long-term Covid.

Although the condition is rare, children can experience long-term Covid symptoms even if they were initially asymptomatic.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Justice have also issued guidelines on long-term Covid as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“Today’s resource is part of the Office of Civil Rights’ and Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services’ sustained efforts to affirmatively advance equity, civil rights, and equal opportunity for students,” according to the Department of Education.