themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-14--Anger, anxiety and excitement as shopkeepers prepare to reopen

Monday marks a significant turning point for the UK , as non-essential retail in England begins to reopen for the first time since March .
High streets that have fallen largely silent - bar the occasional takeaway or essential shop - will creep back to life as the UK 's lockdown measures ease off .
It 's the next step in the government 's roadmap to restart the country 's economy and allow businesses to begin operating again .
If all goes well , hospitality - restaurants , bars , hotels and pubs - could be next to open again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , all eyes are on shops , be they fashion outlets , shoe shops , book stores or florists .
Although business owners are largely excited to take a step closer to normality , there 's a definite undercurrent of unease in the air in Greater Manchester .
Shopkeepers have voiced concern over customer and staff safety , calling for clearer guidance from the government about what exactly it means to be 'Covid-secure ' .
Retailers have been warned that they face fines and even up to two years ' jail time if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One business owner who 's frustrated by the lack of clarity is Elly Amoroso , who owns Form Lifestyle in the city centre - and wo n't be opening on Monday .
Posting on social media yesterday , she said she 's 'not exactly jumping with joy at the prospect of being able to reopen next week ' , blaming a lack of rules around the safety of greeting customers again .
She wrote : `` There are of course many precautions that can be put in place , and we have discussed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll need to do .
`` Even so , I can ’ t help but question if reopening at this time is the right thing to do and if our customers will be wanting to venture out for a visit . ''
Speaking later to the M.E.N.
, she added : `` We just do n't know exactly what we have to do - it feels like we 've just been given suggestions rather than actual firm rules , but then the government website says we risk quite big fines if we do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really sure what 's considered wrong or right .
`` I just do n't really know what to expect .
People seem more comfortable with coming to a smaller shop because they have more control , but I 'm just worried that we wo n't have any customers .
`` A lot of people have said they wo n't use public transport , others have said they want things to feel back to normal so they 'd be happy to see us open .
`` Some people are just thinking that once things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but things are going to be very different . ''
Elly 's sentiments around clarity are echoed by Rachael Otterwell , one half of the couple behind Object Style in Chorlton .
Rachael said : `` We 've had nothing sent to us , we 've had to go out and do our own research .
It feels like everything in this pandemic is down to interpretation .
`` In my opinion I do n't think the government wants to take responsibility for anything .
`` As long as you 're a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going above and beyond with your safety measures - which we are , because I want to protect myself and my staff and my customers - but it 's down to business owners to take their own measures .
`` We initially thought we could open on June 1 so we had everything ready , stock ordered - and then Boris pushed it back .
`` It was a bit frustrating , to see places like Dunelm and Ikea opening with those huge queues .
`` We do n't have big budgets to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other retailers might , even with the grants from the government .
`` I do n't feel particularly nervous about reopening - Beech Road is like its own village within a village , we 've had a lot of essential retailers reopen throughout anyway .
`` My only concern is that when things do get back to normal , people will be so excited after being cooped up this long , it 'll be carnage ! ''
One area of the business that 's completely ground to a halt is the Object Apartment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 's usually rented out to visitors to the city .
She said : `` It 's such a grey area , but I 'm hoping we can start to take bookings from the fourth of July .
I just do n't know until we hear some announcements . ''
Measures that all shops will have to abide by will include quarantining items for 72 hours after customers have returned them , frequent cleaning , and clear signage .
Erecting screens at contact points is also common practice by this stage - though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even further .
Jake Shoes is a family-owned business established in 1975 with branches in both Stockport and Altrincham , which measures and fits shoes for children as well as selling big-name brands to adults .
Manager Jake Bland , who has taken over operations from his parents , has had to build a plastic screen with a cut-out at the bottom so that his staff can safely help children find the right shoes .
He said : `` We 're going to encourage people not to try on if we can help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the shoes if they do .
`` They 're saying we have to quarantine for 72 hours , unless they can be wiped down with an antibacterial wipe and then we can put them straight back .
`` But obviously you 're not going to do that to a nice suede shoe , you 'll ruin it !
`` It 's all so uncertain , the guidance has been incredibly confusing .
We 've literally done all of our planning in the last four or five days because things just keep changing .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing measure and I 'm like 'Okay great , but I 've just paid to have loads of two metre signs made ! '
.
`` We 're excited and happy to get back and see customers and staff .
We employ about 25 people locally .
`` But there are elements of nervousness in case it 's too busy and the whole world comes out on day one .
Town centres could go a bit crazy .
`` But we 'll have people on the door to limit it .
We 'll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The lack of contact between customer and owner will hit some businesses harder than others .
Bridal stores like Brides of Rochdale wo n't be able to give their customers the usual fitting service - brides will have to wear face masks while trying on gowns , and can only bring one family member along with them .
It 's an industry that 's also feeling the ripples from a closed-down hospitality industry , with hotels and restaurants shutting up shop and postponing weddings for the foreseeable future .
Owner Margaret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and has witnessed trade drop dramatically this year - just as business was recovering from disruption caused by the Metrolink works nearby .
`` Every day there 's another message , another person postponing , '' she said .
`` Almost all my weddings for this year have been cancelled .
`` Every single customer who comes in will have to pre-book now , so I can tell them what they need to do . ''
Dresses will be kept in clear plastic bags , customers unable to touch them , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be quarantined for three days off-display afterwards .
She said : `` I 'm a bit nervous to be honest .
I really do n't know how it 's going to pan out , whether I will get the customers back .
`` We 've had a knock-on effect from hotels , churches , registry offices .
It 's been quite stressful to be honest .
`` My husband is 75 and he 's diabetic so I 'm going to have to be extra careful .
`` I have to have at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can deep-clean , and when I get home it 's going to have to be clothes straight in the wash. '' I 've got a few difficult months ahead , but I 'll do my best . ''
Kingbee Records in Chorlton , will also be welcoming back shoppers next week but its owner is concerned about customer experience .
Les Hare said : `` The square footage of the shop is good , but most of the space is taken up with records !
It 's not a nice open space so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ careful .
`` We ca n't really have a one-way system because the shop is laid out by genre - people are n't going to want to queue up to see the jazz section if they have to wait for someone else to finish browsing reggae .
`` On a Saturday , it 's quite common for there to be 20 people in there , and we 're going to have to cut it down to four customers at a time .
`` We 're going to have to start opening on Sundays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bit .
We do n't want there to be a big queue , it 's not fair on anybody .
`` We 're looking forward to opening again , but a little bit apprehensive .
`` I want it to be very busy because we need to get some money back , but I do n't want it to be very busy if it 's going to cause problems . ''
Les has owned the business for 33 years - but says that this current climate is like nothing he 's ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 've never seen anything approaching anything like this .
There was the 2008/2009 downturn , we had a lull when people were transferring from vinyl to CDs , but things have generally been pretty steady .
`` This is like nothing else . ''
Katy Rostron owns Liberty Bluff , a fashion boutique in Bolton , and has had to step up her online offering since closing her shop in March to keep afloat .
She 's also had to rethink the items she sells , scaling up casual clothing items and pulling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now preparing to welcome regular shoppers back in next week , she 's spent the last few days deep-cleaning , installing hand sanitising stations , and putting social distancing arrows on the floor .
She 'll also only be allowing three people at a time into the store .
It 's a challenging time , she admits , like nothing she 's experienced in more than a decade of trade .
She said : `` This is my 13th year in business - I 've had two children , I 've got married @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my shop .
`` The last few months have been really up and down .
I 've felt anxious , worried .
It 's been strange .
`` I 've gone from leading a busy life to being a stay-at-home mum , home schooling , and it 's been hard .
It 's been a juggling act .
`` But I 'm feeling quite excited really , I feel like people are ready to get back to some sort of normality .
`` It 's so nice to see the local high street @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ''

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Monday marks a significant turning point for the UK, as non-essential retail in England begins to reopen for the first time since March.
High streets that have fallen largely silent - bar the occasional takeaway or essential shop - will creep back to life as the UK's lockdown measures ease off.
It's the next step in the government's roadmap to restart the country's economy and allow businesses to begin operating again.
If all goes well, hospitality - restaurants, bars, hotels and pubs - could be next to open again in early July.
For now though, all eyes are on shops, be they fashion outlets, shoe shops, book stores or florists.
Although business owners are largely excited to take a step closer to normality, there's a definite undercurrent of unease in the air in Greater Manchester.
Shopkeepers have voiced concern over customer and staff safety, calling for clearer guidance from the government about what exactly it means to be 'Covid-secure'.
Retailers have been warned that they face fines and even up to two years' jail time if shops aren't up to scratch.
(Image: Instagram - formlifestylestore)
One business owner who's frustrated by the lack of clarity is Elly Amoroso, who owns Form Lifestyle in the city centre - and won't be opening on Monday.
Posting on social media yesterday, she said she's 'not exactly jumping with joy at the prospect of being able to reopen next week', blaming a lack of rules around the safety of greeting customers again.
She wrote: "There are of course many precautions that can be put in place, and we have discussed this and worked out what we’ll need to do.
"Even so, I can’t help but question if reopening at this time is the right thing to do and if our customers will be wanting to venture out for a visit."
Speaking later to the M.E.N., she added: "We just don't know exactly what we have to do - it feels like we've just been given suggestions rather than actual firm rules, but then the government website says we risk quite big fines if we do it wrong, and we're not really sure what's considered wrong or right.
(Image: Instagram - formlifestylestore)
"I just don't really know what to expect. People seem more comfortable with coming to a smaller shop because they have more control, but I'm just worried that we won't have any customers.
"A lot of people have said they won't use public transport, others have said they want things to feel back to normal so they'd be happy to see us open.
"Some people are just thinking that once things reopen it will go back to normal, but things are going to be very different."
Elly's sentiments around clarity are echoed by Rachael Otterwell, one half of the couple behind Object Style in Chorlton.
(Image: Object Style)
Rachael said: "We've had nothing sent to us, we've had to go out and do our own research. It feels like everything in this pandemic is down to interpretation.
"In my opinion I don't think the government wants to take responsibility for anything.
"As long as you're a sensible person and you know you're going above and beyond with your safety measures - which we are, because I want to protect myself and my staff and my customers - but it's down to business owners to take their own measures.
"We initially thought we could open on June 1 so we had everything ready, stock ordered - and then Boris pushed it back.
"It was a bit frustrating, to see places like Dunelm and Ikea opening with those huge queues.
(Image: Object Style)
"We don't have big budgets to put these measures in place like some other retailers might, even with the grants from the government.
"I don't feel particularly nervous about reopening - Beech Road is like its own village within a village, we've had a lot of essential retailers reopen throughout anyway.
"My only concern is that when things do get back to normal, people will be so excited after being cooped up this long, it'll be carnage!"
One area of the business that's completely ground to a halt is the Object Apartment, a self-contained flat above the shop that's usually rented out to visitors to the city.
(Image: Object Style)
She said: "It's such a grey area, but I'm hoping we can start to take bookings from the fourth of July. I just don't know until we hear some announcements."
Measures that all shops will have to abide by will include quarantining items for 72 hours after customers have returned them, frequent cleaning, and clear signage.
Erecting screens at contact points is also common practice by this stage - though one retailer has had to take things even further.
Jake Shoes is a family-owned business established in 1975 with branches in both Stockport and Altrincham, which measures and fits shoes for children as well as selling big-name brands to adults.
Manager Jake Bland, who has taken over operations from his parents, has had to build a plastic screen with a cut-out at the bottom so that his staff can safely help children find the right shoes.
(Image: Jake Shoes)
He said: "We're going to encourage people not to try on if we can help it, because we have to quarantine the shoes if they do.
"They're saying we have to quarantine for 72 hours, unless they can be wiped down with an antibacterial wipe and then we can put them straight back.
"But obviously you're not going to do that to a nice suede shoe, you'll ruin it!
"It's all so uncertain, the guidance has been incredibly confusing. We've literally done all of our planning in the last four or five days because things just keep changing.
"They're talking about reducing the distancing measure and I'm like 'Okay great, but I've just paid to have loads of two metre signs made!'.
"We're excited and happy to get back and see customers and staff. We employ about 25 people locally.
"But there are elements of nervousness in case it's too busy and the whole world comes out on day one. Town centres could go a bit crazy.
"But we'll have people on the door to limit it. We'll just do what feels safe and right."
The lack of contact between customer and owner will hit some businesses harder than others.
Bridal stores like Brides of Rochdale won't be able to give their customers the usual fitting service - brides will have to wear face masks while trying on gowns, and can only bring one family member along with them.
(Image: Brides of Rochdale)
It's an industry that's also feeling the ripples from a closed-down hospitality industry, with hotels and restaurants shutting up shop and postponing weddings for the foreseeable future.
Owner Margaret Theobald has owned the shop since 1995, and has witnessed trade drop dramatically this year - just as business was recovering from disruption caused by the Metrolink works nearby.
"Every day there's another message, another person postponing," she said. "Almost all my weddings for this year have been cancelled.
"Every single customer who comes in will have to pre-book now, so I can tell them what they need to do."
Dresses will be kept in clear plastic bags, customers unable to touch them, and any that are tried on will have to be quarantined for three days off-display afterwards.
She said: "I'm a bit nervous to be honest. I really don't know how it's going to pan out, whether I will get the customers back.
"We've had a knock-on effect from hotels, churches, registry offices. It's been quite stressful to be honest.
"My husband is 75 and he's diabetic so I'm going to have to be extra careful.
"I have to have at least two hours between customers so I can deep-clean, and when I get home it's going to have to be clothes straight in the wash.
"I've got a few difficult months ahead, but I'll do my best."
(Image: Manchester City Council)
Kingbee Records in Chorlton, will also be welcoming back shoppers next week but its owner is concerned about customer experience.
Les Hare said: "The square footage of the shop is good, but most of the space is taken up with records! It's not a nice open space so we're going to have to be careful.
"We can't really have a one-way system because the shop is laid out by genre - people aren't going to want to queue up to see the jazz section if they have to wait for someone else to finish browsing reggae.
"On a Saturday, it's quite common for there to be 20 people in there, and we're going to have to cut it down to four customers at a time.
"We're going to have to start opening on Sundays just so we can spread everyone out a bit. We don't want there to be a big queue, it's not fair on anybody.
(Image: Manchester City Council)
"We're looking forward to opening again, but a little bit apprehensive.
"I want it to be very busy because we need to get some money back, but I don't want it to be very busy if it's going to cause problems."
Les has owned the business for 33 years - but says that this current climate is like nothing he's ever seen.
He continued: "We've never seen anything approaching anything like this. There was the 2008/2009 downturn, we had a lull when people were transferring from vinyl to CDs, but things have generally been pretty steady.
"This is like nothing else."
(Image: Liberty Bluff)
Katy Rostron owns Liberty Bluff, a fashion boutique in Bolton, and has had to step up her online offering since closing her shop in March to keep afloat.
She's also had to rethink the items she sells, scaling up casual clothing items and pulling back on the usual dressier fashions.
Now preparing to welcome regular shoppers back in next week, she's spent the last few days deep-cleaning, installing hand sanitising stations, and putting social distancing arrows on the floor.
She'll also only be allowing three people at a time into the store.
It's a challenging time, she admits, like nothing she's experienced in more than a decade of trade.
She said: "This is my 13th year in business - I've had two children, I've got married, and I've never ever closed my shop.
"The last few months have been really up and down. I've felt anxious, worried. It's been strange.
"I've gone from leading a busy life to being a stay-at-home mum, home schooling, and it's been hard. It's been a juggling act.
"But I'm feeling quite excited really, I feel like people are ready to get back to some sort of normality.
"It's so nice to see the local high street coming back to life a bit."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-14--The forgotten survivors of COVID-19 who still have weird symptoms months later

A strange metallic taste , tingling in the arms and legs , muscle weakness , nerve pain , agonising headaches , severe fatigue , numbness , heart palpitations , back pain , chronic shortness of breath , gastrointestinal disorders , a sore throat , brain fog , conjunctivitis , blurred vision and more .
This grim roll call of symptoms does not include the 'fever , dry cough and loss of smell ' we have come to associate with COVID-19 .
And yet all are among the additional afflictions described by a steady stream of people whose lives are bowing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The pandemic so far has been defined by the horrific death toll which has taken so many loved ones too soon .
But as the battle against COVID-19 continues , there are growing calls for the spotlight to also fall on those who are living in pain amid growing evidence of not only a far broader spectrum of symptoms - but of the illness lasting far longer than the initial 'two weeks ' we were warned about .
Also emerging is the long-term damage wreaked by the virus on the lungs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood vessels .
Such is the extent of these after effects - which can ease for days or weeks at a time , only to return with a vengeance leaving many sufferers incapable of functioning day-to-day , let alone returning to work for weeks or months afterwards - that the virus is being compared to 'this generation 's polio ' .
And the sheer newness of the condition means sufferers are reporting a lack of understanding from both GPs and their employers .
Prof Tim Spector , of King 's College , head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Covid-19 tracker app , which allows those who suspect they have the disease to input their symptoms daily , estimates that around one in 20 Covid patients experience long-term on-off symptoms .
With a lack of clear information for these patients , support groups have sprung up across the world .
These have become a safe space for patients to share information about symptoms , offer support , solidarity and hope that this new kind of 'chronic fatigue ' will ease .
The M.E.N spoke to some of Greater Manchester 's 'long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of whom were in good physical health before the pandemic , about what they have been going through .
Many complain that GPs - through no fault of their own as so little is known about COVID 's long-term impact - are advising they 'exercise more ' or are blaming symptoms on 'anxiety ' or 'menopause ' .
These sufferers , whose symptoms have lasted months , are appealing for the Government to research the long-term impact of the condition so GPs can give clear consistent advice to those suffering from what , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is being described as post-viral fatigue .
The Government says the National Institute for Health Research put out a call on Tuesday for scientists to assist in a study on the 'health and social care consequences ' of COVID-19 'beyond the acute phase ' .
Some argue this horrific set of symptoms also adds fire to the case for stamping out the virus rather than pursuing immunity or simply 'waiting for a vaccine ' - as has been achieved in New Zealand .
`` If these were medieval times we 'd all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's what it feels like . ''
Prof Paul Garner , 64 , an epidemiologist formerly based in Greater Manchester , now at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine .
Previously in good health and a keen trail runner and yogi , Prof Garner now struggles to do a 5km walk .
He is also off work .
83 days since symptoms began .
`` I probably contracted the virus while the current government had a policy of acquisition of herd immunity .
If that means being sick for 83 days or more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I felt strange on March 19 .
I was listening to a briefing about coronavirus at work .
I had no cough , no runny nose , I did n't fit the criteria so I went in .
`` Then the guy doing the briefing said it 's got a doubling time - the number of people infected after 3 days is doubled - and anybody who felt a bit strange should go home .
So I jumped on the bike and went home .
`` After a few days I was extremely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a terrible headache .
I stayed at home , it went away , then it just kept coming back .
`` On day 20 a friend GP who lives opposite thought I had lymphoma and sent me for blood tests .
Nobody knew then it could go on longer than 14 days .
`` I was scared .
You 're by yourself at home and the symptoms are so weird .
You feel okay , then 'whack ' within an hour you 're feeling absolutely mind-bogglingly awful .
Malaise , heavy , weird @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , pain in the back , pain in the hands , diarrhoea , cough , tingling arms and legs .
`` You do n't know what you 're going to get or when you 're going to get it .
`` It 's really horrible .
I 've now been unwell for three months .
I have enormous fatigue .
On Monday I walked 5km and the next day I could n't get out of bed .
`` If I do too much it floors me .
It 's viral fatique .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last but it will be weeks to months .
Who knows with this disease .
`` With some people it takes years with chronic fatigue syndrome .
`` I feel I 've made a bit of progress since last week so I 'm cautiously optimistic and I think most people will get better .
`` I had a test on day 60 and it was negative but the symptoms are so characteristic - it 's basically the weirdest illness you 've ever had .
My sense of smell was so bad I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't smell it at all then looked at my hands and they were peeling .
`` I just want this horrible fatigue to go - it resolves a bit then comes back .
It 's like being possessed by a demon - if these were medieval times we 'd all be possessed by a demon , that 's what it feels like .
`` I just hope I 'm soon back to British Military Fitness , hammering it 'round the park . ''
`` GPs just say I must be lethargic because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do more exercise . ''
Natalie-Anne Hall , 32 , is a sociology PhD student at the University of Manchester who lives in central Manchester .
Despite having mild asthma , she was previously a dancer and regular gym-goer but no longer has the energy for these activities .
She has had symptoms for 104 days .
`` Some days I ca n't even manage to stand up right long enough to do the dishes without feeling dizzy .
I find it upsetting not knowing how long it will be until I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It started like a bad cold at the end of February .
Then after a few days I went back to normal but then I had unbelievably bad body aches and nausea and a phlegmy cough .
`` After a couple of weeks I thought I was recovering then I felt tired again .
I had a day when I thought my asthma was really bad .
I called 111 and waited all day for them to call back .
`` I ended up getting steroids for my asthma but the next day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - I had a massive headache and was short of breath .
It felt like I was fighting a massive infection .
`` That cleared after a few days and I thought I was fine .
I started back on exercise but then crashed again a few weeks later .
It comes in waves .
I was struggling to recover my energy levels .
I felt tight-chested .
`` Then on May 11 I tried to exercise and the fatigue and nausea went really bad .
It was more than three weeks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ better and I thought I was getting better but by the end of the weekend after being more active I felt really bad again .
`` I feel so tired I feel weak , I ca n't walk around , every time I have to move my arms or legs it 's so difficult .
Like it 's a lot of effort , like you 're full of bricks .
There 's nausea and I feel dizzy .
`` It 's like post-viral fatigue but also with the chest tightness and when I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very very short of breath .
It 's like there are breathing issues .
`` I 've been on the phone to my doctor several times in this saga .
They want to focus on my asthma .
They wo n't give me a blood test .
They just say I must be lethargic because of the lockdown and change of routine and to do more exercise .
`` If you over do it with this fatigue you set yourself back .
But the kind of advice you get is to try and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel like there 's a lack of awareness in general .
Government advice says it 's a dry cough , fever and loss of smell or taste - but so many people do n't get those symptoms .
`` Many of us have different tests that come back clear but we feel wrong .
It would be good to get antibody tests so we know .
It 's really impacting my life and my ability to do normal activities .
`` Some days I ca n't work - others I have to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming to the end of my PhD and I ca n't put in the hours I want to .
`` After work I do n't have the energy to do anything other than sit down and watch TV .
`` Some days I feel very negative but other days - like today - I feel more positive that I will get well . ''
`` Getting out of bed is exhausting .
It 's like a pick and mix of what can go wrong with your body . ''
Jo Platt , 46 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Labour MP for Leigh , lives in the town with her children Oliver , 17 , Kian , 15 , and Lily , 15 .
She believes the two younger teenagers also contracted the virus but have now recovered .
Has had symptoms for 79 days .
`` I 'm actually having a really bad day today .
Getting out of bed is exhausting .
`` When I got ill on March 24 I 'd done some shopping knowing lockdown was coming .
Then , literally the day after Boris Johnson announced lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Because I 'd seen the news reports I thought it was going to be like flu .
But I was sat at the computer in the study and it was like somebody had flicked a switch and there was this nausea , lightheadedness , I was very dizzy , completely spaced out .
`` No cough and even though I felt hot my temperature had n't gone up .
I just felt fatigue and this really spaced out feeling .
`` I could n't do anything , could n't concentrate and had to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and then I felt okay and thought it must have been mild .
`` Then I went back downhill with a bump .
I could n't move , I was bedridden , I had no energy , I had severe diarrhoea , headaches but still no temperature and a cough .
`` But then what started to alarm me was the shortness of breath .
That did n't happen until two weeks into it .
I 'd wake up in the middle of the night gasping .
`` I phoned 111 but they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to contact my GP the next day .
There were n't tests then so you start doubting yourself .
The GP was sympathtetic but if you have n't got the cough and the temperature they ca n't say for sure you have it .
`` Four weeks in I still had the gastro symptoms - nausea and I could n't eat .
Then I 'd get better and crash back down .
`` I 'm now on the fourth cycle of crashing with symptoms .
It 's the same each time , my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lung area , shortness of breath .
Then it eases and goes into my head .
Like a clamp .
It 's excruciating .
`` There are other little anomalies - sore joints , wrists , knees .
Like arthritis .
`` It 's like a pick and mix of what can go wrong with your body .
`` Other people I 've spoken to have had the same symptoms at different times .
I did get tested but it was 10 weeks after symptoms and it was negative . ''
`` Other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks so hopefully I 've only got a few more weeks of pain '' , Jo added .
`` I 'm trying to remain positive which is really important for people going through this long term , because you have these nagging questions in the back of your head .
Is this going to have a long term effect on my body ?
`` Now , if I go and take some cushions in from outside it raises my heart rate .
That 's not normal .
There 's still a huge question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to us .
`` My uncle who tested positive has had long-term effects too .
My sister is the same with long-term effects .
We phone each other .
My other sister had it but just for two weeks and now she 's fine .
`` The Government needs to be on top of this .
We need papers on it so we can be aware of what 's going on and people stop being fobbed off .
`` So many people have said 'do you not think it 's the menopause ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are lots of men , lots of younger women , getting in touch with the same symptoms .
`` The GPs have been accommodating , they have sent off blood tests .
They have done their jobs but they hands are tied with the information they have on COVID - that 's what we need to change . ''
`` When 's it going to end ?
Am I going to feel better or am I going to find out it 's done some damage ?
Gail Broli , a 38-year-old teaching assistant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with her husband Silvanio , 53 , who works for the AA , and their children Adam , 15 , and Ben , five .
Before she became ill she would go to the gym five times a week but she now struggles with anything more than a walk .
She 's been to hospital five times with a range of symptoms including heart palpitations .
Her symptoms have so far lasted 91 days .
`` My whole family caught it in early March .
It felt like the flu but I just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of people in the same position but there was no advice from the Government then about sending staff home .
`` We all had symptoms that lasted weeks except my son Adam who just had a sore throat and eyes at first and then again at Easter .
`` But Ben was similar to me .
We both had conjunctivitis and it lasted weeks as well .
He has asthma and he was tired a lot and said he had a pain in his chest .
He was asking for his inhaler a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks he was complaining of that and stomach ache .
`` My husband has been the same but not as severe .
He has complained lately of feeling fatigued , and his heart rate has been racing .
`` The symptoms are n't just what they are putting out there .
For example , I get a metallic taste in my mouth .
`` The first flu feeling went on for about three weeks initially .
I was extremely chesty and I never get anything like that .
I felt like I 'd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was quite breathless .
I was struggling to go up the stairs but I carried on .
At that time they were saying it would only last two weeks .
`` I noticed I still had a pain in my back and a lump in my throat but then on Good Friday I felt awful , like I was coming down with the flu again .
This time it was more severe , I could n't get up or move about .
`` I remember having fevers and brain fog and confusion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could n't eat properly .
One night I felt like I was being poisoned .
I had to prop myself up in bed because I could n't breathe properly .
`` Another night I felt awful in bed , the next minute I felt my heart racing .
That was the start of chest palpitations .
I 'd wake up night after night with my heart pounding .
My Apple watch would tell me my heart was going at 120 and I could n't get back to sleep .
`` All the while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It 's permanent .
I rang 111 because I was shaking , ice cold in bed , my heart was racing , I had a rash , a sore neck and throat and felt sick .
They told me to go to A & E .
`` The doctor said it 's an infection - at that time they were n't testing for COVID .
He sent me home with antibiotics .
The same thing happened the next night .
I went back to A & E and they did an ECG , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They talked a lot about anxiety .
`` It occurs in the day now .
I have constant chest pain , it radiates all around my back , I have palpitations where my heart rate goes to 120 and back down to 60 .
I 'm still having fevers , headaches and constant fatigue .
I feel like I 've got a chest infection .
`` Sometimes I feel extremely nauseous , I get pins and needles down my right side and a metallic taste in my mouth and I keep ending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart palpitations .
I 'm on the list to see a cardiologist .
`` This is constant and we 're going on more than 13 weeks and I do n't know what I 'm going to wake up to .
`` I do n't have a quality of life .
I 'm just trying to stay positive and trying to do little bits that I can .
I try to ignore it but it 's still there .
I just feel miserable .
`` When 's it going to end ?
Am I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to find out it 's done some damage ?
`` I just ca n't see the light at the minute , it 's a constant battle .
`` My husband is also having heart palpitations and feels breathless and fatigued .
`` I do n't know what 's going to happen .
What worries me is that it could come back full force and put me in hospital .
We have no answers .
`` Some things you read saying it can stay in your system and re-emerge .
They are n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day at a time , I ca n't think about the future at the momennt .
`` I just hope each day that the symptoms may improve a bit .
`` Ideally I 'd like to see research now into the longer term effects .
It 's something we need to be aware of .
Employers will be expecting people to come back to work after two weeks .
Medical professionals need to understand , stop telling people it 's in their heads , it 's anxiety . ''
`` The GPs simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Carol Beattie , 49 , a secondary teacher lives with her daughter aged nine and her husband , a policeman .
She 's had symptoms for eight weeks .
`` It just seems to be me who got ill in the family .
I felt myself going downhill .
`` I kept going out running and found myself getting slower and slower and then one day I fell over .
`` Then I felt worse and worse .
I was just lying on the sofa concentrating on breathing .
Luckily my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had to self-isolate .
`` I had started with a dry cough and felt something had settled in my lungs .
It felt like all my joints were in a vice being squeezed .
I had a small dry cough like I had swallowed a fly , tight chest and upset stomach .
A test came back negative but I really believed I had it .
`` I recovered from the initial horrible week , seemed to get better for a week but then relapsed , this overwhelming fatigue hit me .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they felt like lead , I struggled to lift them , I had joint pain in my hands , constant headache across my forehead that just makes you close your eyes , whole body weakness , I struggled to even lift my phone , concentration issues , my legs were particularly restless and painful at night .
`` Pains in the soles of my feet , through to my ankles and wrists , terrible insomnia , deep pain across my upper back and kidney , stomach pain and heartburn , low grade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pain at the back of my neck and sensitive scalp .
`` After a month I started experiencing heart palpitations and ended up in A & E when it shot up to 186 bpm watching TV .
`` Fortunately the tests were okay and it seems caused by inflammation .
I often could n't open my hands for several minutes in the morning .
`` On June 5 my GP prescribed me a nerve pain medicine which caused an increased reaction and I ended by in A & E with terrible chest pains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inflammation .
`` Over the weeks I have tried more supplements to help the inflammation which include magnesium spray on my legs at night , vitamins D/C/B12/K2 , zinc , turmeric , krill oil , Quercerin and Buscopan prescribed for my tummy and Gaviscon .
`` I have found surrendering to the fatigue has helped .
`` I feel like I 'm about 90 years old .
My dad 's 70 and he can do more than I can do at the moment .
`` I 'm in a support group .
Some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't .
Some are positive , some are negative .
`` We are all joined by a similarity of symptoms of varying degrees .
`` Some are further along the long rollercoaster road to recovery , and some are just embarking .
`` Frustratingly there is very little understanding in workplaces , causing additional anxiety , and the GPs simply do n't know how to treat us .
We feel trapped and forgotten , left behind while the rest of the world zooms on .
`` We are all trying to support each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , give advice .
`` I am shocked by the wide age range of the group and includes children .
`` I feel I am one of the oldest at 49 .
In addition to me it appears most of the group beforehand were energetic , fit and healthy .
`` I 've got huge concerns about going back to work - you get these headaches , right across your forehead , it closes your eyes and you just ca n't concentrate for any length of time .
`` I 've got no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can do is feed myself and occasionally wash. '' Every time my HR manager rings me it feels like I 'm making excuses .
I do n't know when I 'm going to get better .
`` Nobody can tell us when we 'll be ready to go back to work .
I know when I go back I wo n't be like I used to be .
`` There 's so little understanding of what people like myself are going through .
`` I think if people were more aware that people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people would try and be safer and stop the spread .
`` It 's not just you get it mildly for two weeks , people need to be aware it goes on for weeks and it 's painful , debilitating and scary .
`` I would like to see the Government do more research into this .
`` I believe we can all get through it but I worry that if people keep fighting and do n't rest they can develop ME .
I think it 's really important that the Government does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as more and more people going on to long term sickness which will cripple the economy even more . ''
What the Department for Health and Social Care says : • As our understanding of the virus increases , the Government continues to review the emerging evidence and listen to our medical advisers on latest guidance .
• Our response to this virus and all clinical guidance has been led by science and a world renowned team of clinicians , public health experts and scientists – including epidemiologists - working round the clock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• The impact of COVID-19 on long term health is recognised as an important area for the Government going forward .
• There is currently research funding available for research into COVID-19 via the NIHR/UKRI rolling research call .
This asks for research with an impact inside of 12 months .
• The National Institute for Health Research ( NIHR ) has already emphasised an interest in some longer term impacts e.g .
mental health • This week , NIHR has also launched a new COVID-19 research call on Recovery and Learning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and social care consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic beyond the acute phase , including the longer term impacts of COVID-19 .
This will help mitigate the impact of subsequent phases of the pandemic and its aftermath .

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A strange metallic taste, tingling in the arms and legs, muscle weakness, nerve pain, agonising headaches, severe fatigue, numbness, heart palpitations, back pain, chronic shortness of breath, gastrointestinal disorders, a sore throat, brain fog, conjunctivitis, blurred vision and more.
This grim roll call of symptoms does not include the 'fever, dry cough and loss of smell' we have come to associate with COVID-19.
And yet all are among the additional afflictions described by a steady stream of people whose lives are bowing under the weight of this terrible disease.
The pandemic so far has been defined by the horrific death toll which has taken so many loved ones too soon.
But as the battle against COVID-19 continues, there are growing calls for the spotlight to also fall on those who are living in pain amid growing evidence of not only a far broader spectrum of symptoms - but of the illness lasting far longer than the initial 'two weeks' we were warned about.
Also emerging is the long-term damage wreaked by the virus on the lungs, heart, kidneys, brain and even blood vessels.
Such is the extent of these after effects - which can ease for days or weeks at a time, only to return with a vengeance leaving many sufferers incapable of functioning day-to-day, let alone returning to work for weeks or months afterwards - that the virus is being compared to 'this generation's polio'.
And the sheer newness of the condition means sufferers are reporting a lack of understanding from both GPs and their employers.
Prof Tim Spector, of King's College, head of a research group which has developed the Covid-19 tracker app, which allows those who suspect they have the disease to input their symptoms daily, estimates that around one in 20 Covid patients experience long-term on-off symptoms.
With a lack of clear information for these patients, support groups have sprung up across the world. These have become a safe space for patients to share information about symptoms, offer support, solidarity and hope that this new kind of 'chronic fatigue' will ease.
The M.E.N spoke to some of Greater Manchester's 'long haulers' of varying ages, all of whom were in good physical health before the pandemic, about what they have been going through.
Many complain that GPs - through no fault of their own as so little is known about COVID's long-term impact - are advising they 'exercise more' or are blaming symptoms on 'anxiety' or 'menopause'.
These sufferers, whose symptoms have lasted months, are appealing for the Government to research the long-term impact of the condition so GPs can give clear consistent advice to those suffering from what, for lack of a more clear definition, is being described as post-viral fatigue.
The Government says the National Institute for Health Research put out a call on Tuesday for scientists to assist in a study on the 'health and social care consequences' of COVID-19 'beyond the acute phase'.
Some argue this horrific set of symptoms also adds fire to the case for stamping out the virus rather than pursuing immunity or simply 'waiting for a vaccine' - as has been achieved in New Zealand.
"If these were medieval times we'd all be possessed by a demon, that's what it feels like."
Prof Paul Garner, 64, an epidemiologist formerly based in Greater Manchester, now at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. Previously in good health and a keen trail runner and yogi, Prof Garner now struggles to do a 5km walk. He is also off work. 83 days since symptoms began.
"I probably contracted the virus while the current government had a policy of acquisition of herd immunity. If that means being sick for 83 days or more then that makes me angry.
"I felt strange on March 19. I was listening to a briefing about coronavirus at work. I had no cough, no runny nose, I didn't fit the criteria so I went in.
"Then the guy doing the briefing said it's got a doubling time - the number of people infected after 3 days is doubled - and anybody who felt a bit strange should go home. So I jumped on the bike and went home.
"After a few days I was extremely unwell. I got a cough, a terrible headache. I stayed at home, it went away, then it just kept coming back.
"On day 20 a friend GP who lives opposite thought I had lymphoma and sent me for blood tests. Nobody knew then it could go on longer than 14 days.
"I was scared. You're by yourself at home and the symptoms are so weird. You feel okay, then 'whack' within an hour you're feeling absolutely mind-bogglingly awful. Malaise, heavy, weird things happen - ringing in the ears, pain in the back, pain in the hands, diarrhoea, cough, tingling arms and legs.
"You don't know what you're going to get or when you're going to get it.
"It's really horrible. I've now been unwell for three months. I have enormous fatigue. On Monday I walked 5km and the next day I couldn't get out of bed.
"If I do too much it floors me. It's viral fatique. I don't know how long it will last but it will be weeks to months. Who knows with this disease.
"With some people it takes years with chronic fatigue syndrome.
"I feel I've made a bit of progress since last week so I'm cautiously optimistic and I think most people will get better.
"I had a test on day 60 and it was negative but the symptoms are so characteristic - it's basically the weirdest illness you've ever had. My sense of smell was so bad I was using bleach in the kitchen and couldn't smell it at all then looked at my hands and they were peeling.
"I just want this horrible fatigue to go - it resolves a bit then comes back. It's like being possessed by a demon - if these were medieval times we'd all be possessed by a demon, that's what it feels like.
"I just hope I'm soon back to British Military Fitness, hammering it 'round the park."
"GPs just say I must be lethargic because of the lockdown and change of routine and to do more exercise."
Natalie-Anne Hall, 32, is a sociology PhD student at the University of Manchester who lives in central Manchester. Despite having mild asthma, she was previously a dancer and regular gym-goer but no longer has the energy for these activities. She has had symptoms for 104 days.
"Some days I can't even manage to stand up right long enough to do the dishes without feeling dizzy. I find it upsetting not knowing how long it will be until I can resume 'normal' life.
"It started like a bad cold at the end of February. Then after a few days I went back to normal but then I had unbelievably bad body aches and nausea and a phlegmy cough.
"After a couple of weeks I thought I was recovering then I felt tired again. I had a day when I thought my asthma was really bad. I called 111 and waited all day for them to call back.
"I ended up getting steroids for my asthma but the next day - three weeks after the first symptoms - I had a massive headache and was short of breath. It felt like I was fighting a massive infection.
"That cleared after a few days and I thought I was fine. I started back on exercise but then crashed again a few weeks later. It comes in waves. I was struggling to recover my energy levels. I felt tight-chested.
"Then on May 11 I tried to exercise and the fatigue and nausea went really bad. It was more than three weeks.
"Last week I felt a lot better and I thought I was getting better but by the end of the weekend after being more active I felt really bad again.
"I feel so tired I feel weak, I can't walk around, every time I have to move my arms or legs it's so difficult. Like it's a lot of effort, like you're full of bricks. There's nausea and I feel dizzy.
"It's like post-viral fatigue but also with the chest tightness and when I try to do physical activity I feel very very short of breath. It's like there are breathing issues.
"I've been on the phone to my doctor several times in this saga. They want to focus on my asthma. They won't give me a blood test. They just say I must be lethargic because of the lockdown and change of routine and to do more exercise.
"If you over do it with this fatigue you set yourself back. But the kind of advice you get is to try and push myself to exercise.
"I feel like there's a lack of awareness in general. Government advice says it's a dry cough, fever and loss of smell or taste - but so many people don't get those symptoms.
"Many of us have different tests that come back clear but we feel wrong. It would be good to get antibody tests so we know. It's really impacting my life and my ability to do normal activities.
"Some days I can't work - others I have to work lying on the sofa. I'm coming to the end of my PhD and I can't put in the hours I want to.
"After work I don't have the energy to do anything other than sit down and watch TV.
"Some days I feel very negative but other days - like today - I feel more positive that I will get well."
(Image: ABNM Photography)
"Getting out of bed is exhausting. It's like a pick and mix of what can go wrong with your body."
Jo Platt, 46, a mum of two, former Labour MP for Leigh, lives in the town with her children Oliver, 17, Kian, 15, and Lily, 15. She believes the two younger teenagers also contracted the virus but have now recovered. Has had symptoms for 79 days.
"I'm actually having a really bad day today. Getting out of bed is exhausting.
"When I got ill on March 24 I'd done some shopping knowing lockdown was coming. Then, literally the day after Boris Johnson announced lockdown I came down with symptoms.
"Because I'd seen the news reports I thought it was going to be like flu. But I was sat at the computer in the study and it was like somebody had flicked a switch and there was this nausea, lightheadedness, I was very dizzy, completely spaced out.
"No cough and even though I felt hot my temperature hadn't gone up. I just felt fatigue and this really spaced out feeling.
"I couldn't do anything, couldn't concentrate and had to lie down. That lasted two days and then I felt okay and thought it must have been mild.
"Then I went back downhill with a bump. I couldn't move, I was bedridden, I had no energy, I had severe diarrhoea, headaches but still no temperature and a cough.
"But then what started to alarm me was the shortness of breath. That didn't happen until two weeks into it. I'd wake up in the middle of the night gasping.
"I phoned 111 but they said I had no temperature so just to contact my GP the next day. There weren't tests then so you start doubting yourself. The GP was sympathtetic but if you haven't got the cough and the temperature they can't say for sure you have it.
"Four weeks in I still had the gastro symptoms - nausea and I couldn't eat. Then I'd get better and crash back down.
"I'm now on the fourth cycle of crashing with symptoms. It's the same each time, my stomach, upper back ache in my lung area, shortness of breath. Then it eases and goes into my head. Like a clamp. It's excruciating.
"There are other little anomalies - sore joints, wrists, knees. Like arthritis.
"It's like a pick and mix of what can go wrong with your body.
"Other people I've spoken to have had the same symptoms at different times. I did get tested but it was 10 weeks after symptoms and it was negative."
(Image: ABNM Photography)
"Other people seem to get better around 13 weeks so hopefully I've only got a few more weeks of pain", Jo added.
"I'm trying to remain positive which is really important for people going through this long term, because you have these nagging questions in the back of your head. Is this going to have a long term effect on my body?
"Now, if I go and take some cushions in from outside it raises my heart rate. That's not normal. There's still a huge question mark as to what is actually happening to us.
"My uncle who tested positive has had long-term effects too. My sister is the same with long-term effects. We phone each other. My other sister had it but just for two weeks and now she's fine.
"The Government needs to be on top of this. We need papers on it so we can be aware of what's going on and people stop being fobbed off.
"So many people have said 'do you not think it's the menopause?" No it isn't. There are lots of men, lots of younger women, getting in touch with the same symptoms.
"The GPs have been accommodating, they have sent off blood tests. They have done their jobs but they hands are tied with the information they have on COVID - that's what we need to change."
"When's it going to end? Am I going to feel better or am I going to find out it's done some damage?
Gail Broli, a 38-year-old teaching assistant from Hindley Green in Wigan, lives with her husband Silvanio, 53, who works for the AA, and their children Adam, 15, and Ben, five.
Before she became ill she would go to the gym five times a week but she now struggles with anything more than a walk. She's been to hospital five times with a range of symptoms including heart palpitations. Her symptoms have so far lasted 91 days.
"My whole family caught it in early March. It felt like the flu but I just worked through it. There were lots of people in the same position but there was no advice from the Government then about sending staff home.
"We all had symptoms that lasted weeks except my son Adam who just had a sore throat and eyes at first and then again at Easter.
"But Ben was similar to me. We both had conjunctivitis and it lasted weeks as well. He has asthma and he was tired a lot and said he had a pain in his chest. He was asking for his inhaler a lot.
"Probably for about 10 weeks he was complaining of that and stomach ache.
"My husband has been the same but not as severe. He has complained lately of feeling fatigued, and his heart rate has been racing.
"The symptoms aren't just what they are putting out there. For example, I get a metallic taste in my mouth.
"The first flu feeling went on for about three weeks initially. I was extremely chesty and I never get anything like that. I felt like I'd been hit by a bus.
"I was quite breathless. I was struggling to go up the stairs but I carried on. At that time they were saying it would only last two weeks.
"I noticed I still had a pain in my back and a lump in my throat but then on Good Friday I felt awful, like I was coming down with the flu again. This time it was more severe, I couldn't get up or move about.
"I remember having fevers and brain fog and confusion. I remember feeling nauseous, I couldn't eat properly. One night I felt like I was being poisoned. I had to prop myself up in bed because I couldn't breathe properly.
"Another night I felt awful in bed, the next minute I felt my heart racing. That was the start of chest palpitations. I'd wake up night after night with my heart pounding. My Apple watch would tell me my heart was going at 120 and I couldn't get back to sleep.
"All the while I've had a tight chest. It's permanent. I rang 111 because I was shaking, ice cold in bed, my heart was racing, I had a rash, a sore neck and throat and felt sick. They told me to go to A&E.
"The doctor said it's an infection - at that time they weren't testing for COVID. He sent me home with antibiotics. The same thing happened the next night. I went back to A&E and they did an ECG, bloods, it all came back clear. They talked a lot about anxiety.
"It occurs in the day now. I have constant chest pain, it radiates all around my back, I have palpitations where my heart rate goes to 120 and back down to 60. I'm still having fevers, headaches and constant fatigue. I feel like I've got a chest infection.
"Sometimes I feel extremely nauseous, I get pins and needles down my right side and a metallic taste in my mouth and I keep ending up back in A&E with heart palpitations. I'm on the list to see a cardiologist.
"This is constant and we're going on more than 13 weeks and I don't know what I'm going to wake up to.
"I don't have a quality of life. I'm just trying to stay positive and trying to do little bits that I can. I try to ignore it but it's still there. I just feel miserable.
"When's it going to end? Am I going to feel better or am I going to find out it's done some damage?
"I just can't see the light at the minute, it's a constant battle.
"My husband is also having heart palpitations and feels breathless and fatigued.
"I don't know what's going to happen. What worries me is that it could come back full force and put me in hospital. We have no answers.
"Some things you read saying it can stay in your system and re-emerge. They aren't sure on immunity. I take each day at a time, I can't think about the future at the momennt.
"I just hope each day that the symptoms may improve a bit.
"Ideally I'd like to see research now into the longer term effects. It's something we need to be aware of. Employers will be expecting people to come back to work after two weeks. Medical professionals need to understand, stop telling people it's in their heads, it's anxiety."
"The GPs simply don't know how to treat us."
Carol Beattie, 49, a secondary teacher lives with her daughter aged nine and her husband, a policeman. She's had symptoms for eight weeks.
"It just seems to be me who got ill in the family. I felt myself going downhill.
"I kept going out running and found myself getting slower and slower and then one day I fell over.
"Then I felt worse and worse. I was just lying on the sofa concentrating on breathing. Luckily my husband was off work and then he had to self-isolate.
"I had started with a dry cough and felt something had settled in my lungs. It felt like all my joints were in a vice being squeezed. I had a small dry cough like I had swallowed a fly, tight chest and upset stomach. A test came back negative but I really believed I had it.
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"I recovered from the initial horrible week, seemed to get better for a week but then relapsed, this overwhelming fatigue hit me.
"Muscle weakness in my arms and legs, they felt like lead, I struggled to lift them, I had joint pain in my hands, constant headache across my forehead that just makes you close your eyes, whole body weakness, I struggled to even lift my phone, concentration issues, my legs were particularly restless and painful at night.
"Pains in the soles of my feet, through to my ankles and wrists, terrible insomnia, deep pain across my upper back and kidney, stomach pain and heartburn, low grade fever, watery eyes, swollen gland pain at the back of my neck and sensitive scalp.
"After a month I started experiencing heart palpitations and ended up in A&E when it shot up to 186 bpm watching TV.
"Fortunately the tests were okay and it seems caused by inflammation. I often couldn't open my hands for several minutes in the morning.
"On June 5 my GP prescribed me a nerve pain medicine which caused an increased reaction and I ended by in A&E with terrible chest pains, again this turned out to be inflammation.
"Over the weeks I have tried more supplements to help the inflammation which include magnesium spray on my legs at night, vitamins D/C/B12/K2, zinc, turmeric, krill oil, Quercerin and Buscopan prescribed for my tummy and Gaviscon.
"I have found surrendering to the fatigue has helped.
"I feel like I'm about 90 years old. My dad's 70 and he can do more than I can do at the moment.
"I'm in a support group. Some of us have been tested some haven't. Some are positive, some are negative.
"We are all joined by a similarity of symptoms of varying degrees.
"Some are further along the long rollercoaster road to recovery, and some are just embarking.
"Frustratingly there is very little understanding in workplaces, causing additional anxiety, and the GPs simply don't know how to treat us. We feel trapped and forgotten, left behind while the rest of the world zooms on.
"We are all trying to support each other, share our stories, symptoms, give advice.
"I am shocked by the wide age range of the group and includes children.
"I feel I am one of the oldest at 49. In addition to me it appears most of the group beforehand were energetic, fit and healthy.
"I've got huge concerns about going back to work - you get these headaches, right across your forehead, it closes your eyes and you just can't concentrate for any length of time.
"I've got no energy to do anything. All I can do is feed myself and occasionally wash.
"Every time my HR manager rings me it feels like I'm making excuses. I don't know when I'm going to get better.
"Nobody can tell us when we'll be ready to go back to work. I know when I go back I won't be like I used to be.
"There's so little understanding of what people like myself are going through.
"I think if people were more aware that people are going through a debilitating longer recovery people would try and be safer and stop the spread.
"It's not just you get it mildly for two weeks, people need to be aware it goes on for weeks and it's painful, debilitating and scary.
"I would like to see the Government do more research into this.
"I believe we can all get through it but I worry that if people keep fighting and don't rest they can develop ME. I think it's really important that the Government does some work to stop it ending up as more and more people going on to long term sickness which will cripple the economy even more."
What the Department for Health and Social Care says:
As our understanding of the virus increases, the Government continues to review the emerging evidence and listen to our medical advisers on latest guidance.
Our response to this virus and all clinical guidance has been led by science and a world renowned team of clinicians, public health experts and scientists – including epidemiologists - working round the clock to protect our NHS and save lives.
The impact of COVID-19 on long term health is recognised as an important area for the Government going forward.
There is currently research funding available for research into COVID-19 via the NIHR/UKRI rolling research call. This asks for research with an impact inside of 12 months.
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) has already emphasised an interest in some longer term impacts e.g. mental health
This week, NIHR has also launched a new COVID-19 research call on Recovery and Learning to better understand and manage the health and social care consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic beyond the acute phase, including the longer term impacts of COVID-19. This will help mitigate the impact of subsequent phases of the pandemic and its aftermath.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-14--Full list of all the major shops reopening in England tomorrow

On Monday June 15 , thousands of shops across the UK will reopen their doors to shoppers .
Shops and shopping centres are expected to be busy as Brits are allowed to browse for things like clothes , shoes and handbags once again , and social distancing measures have been put in place .
However , not all shops are reopening , so if you 're planning on heading out , you 'll need to check ahead to see if the store/s you want to visit are opening .
Here is a full list of all the major brands reopening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Mirror .
• Apple - all 32 stores in England and Northern Ireland - customers will have their temperature checked and be required to wear masks while visiting , although the chain will provide these if needed • Argos - 140 stand alone stores - Argos branches inside Sainsbury 's have been operating for most of lockdown , but the chain 's stand alone stores have been closed .
That ends on Monday with 140 branches reopening .
You can use the Argos to get updates on your nearest branch • BT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind the scenes , BT is reopening shops in England with a snazzy new SMS booking system - so if you visit when the store is full , you 'll get receive a text when the shop is ready to welcome you back • Curry's/PC World - 131 stores - select stores across the UK will open as Tech Help Hubs , it 's also introducing a drive-thru order and collect service • Debenhams - 50 stores in England - The first 50 Debenhams will be reopening in England on Monday , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sadly , 20 will remain shut for good after discussions with landlords broke down .
• EE - Like BT , EE is reopening stores on Monday , with the same text alerts in place , along with more familiar safety precautions such as sanitisers and floor markings • Ernest Jones - Jewellers are reopening too , with all jewellery and watches cleaned before and after they are handled by customers wanting to try them on • GAME - All stores in England and Northern Ireland to repopen , although Belong Arenas will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ H & M - Hennies is planning to open `` the majority '' of its stores in England on Monday , although it would n't confirm exact numbers and fitting rooms will stay closed .
You can check its store locator on hm.com to find out about your nearest branch .
• HMV - 93 stores - as well as social distancing measures , HMV is bringing in a “ List and Leave ” service to let you drop off a list of what you 're looking for then pick them up ready-packed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Ring and Reserve ” service coming in .
Customers will also be required to use hand sanitiser before handling products • Hobbycraft - 90 stores across England and Northern Ireland .
Customers are advised to visit Hobbycraft.co.uk to check store opening times • House of Fraser - 51 stores are set to reopen this month , Click here to check store opening times • H Samuel - Jewellery and watches will be cleaned before and after they are handled by customers and a virtual advice service is available online 9am to 9pm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 88 stores - Lush will be reopening 88 of its 89 English stores on Monday , but spa and hair lab bookings will continue to be suspended • JD Sports - 309 stores - JD Sports said it will reopen 309 stores in England across shopping centres , high streets and retail parks from June 15 .
High street and so-called open air stores reopened in Northern Ireland on June 12 , but shopping centres there will remain closed • John Lewis - just two stores are reopening on Monday - Poole and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday as John Lewis looks to be as certain as possible staff and customers will be able to operate safely • Jones Bootmaker - a phased re-opening of our Jones Bootmaker stores in areas where it is safe to do so starts on Monday .
Opening hours may also have changed , you can check what 's open when with its store locator • M & S Clothing and Home - stand alone stores are opening up on Monday , while there are 260 stores that sell clothing and food under one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that have already gained a working knowledge of hygiene and social distancing measures needed to keep everyone safe • M & S Outlet - All 25 M & S Outlets in England , which sell M & S clothing at up to 50 % off ( and more ) , will be reopening on Monday following more than two months of closure • Next - 25 stores - Next is also introducing a phased reopening , with the stores most easily able to accommodate social distancing first to let customers back in .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ • O2 - As O2 reopens , NHS and care workers will be given VIP access to skip queues to speak to an adviser in store .
Stores will be managed by virtual queues and video consultations • Primark - 153 of its stores will reopen with new measures in place including extra security staff , safety signs , reduced hours and fewer tills .
Customers can check their local branch 's opening times here • Scope - 16 stores - it 's also imposing a 72-hour quarantine for all donations and using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inform how to get all 207 up and running again • Smyths - Stores in England are opening again , although unaccompanied children will not be let in , nor will more than two children per adult .
The first hour on Thursday 's will also be devoted to elderly and vulnerable shoppers • Sports Direct - Some stores will be working to new hours ; you can check Sports Direct 's website here to make sure you do n't arrive when it 's closed • The Entertainer - all 173 of its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ click and collect operating at 130 of them • The Perfume Shop - 68 stores on Monday , 182 stores by next Thursday - Customers will be able to find a full list of stores which will reopen and their opening times by visiting theperfumeshop.com from 15 June • Vodafone - 65 stores on Monday , with another 300 added a week later .
Some inner London outlets in will remain closed to prevent staff from using public transport .

newsdesk@men-news.co.uk (James Andrews, Rachel Pugh)

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On Monday June 15, thousands of shops across the UK will reopen their doors to shoppers.
Shops and shopping centres are expected to be busy as Brits are allowed to browse for things like clothes, shoes and handbags once again, and social distancing measures have been put in place.
However, not all shops are reopening, so if you're planning on heading out, you'll need to check ahead to see if the store/s you want to visit are opening.
Here is a full list of all the major brands reopening in England this week, according to the Mirror.
Apple - all 32 stores in England and Northern Ireland - customers will have their temperature checked and be required to wear masks while visiting, although the chain will provide these if needed
- all 32 stores in England and Northern Ireland - customers will have their temperature checked and be required to wear masks while visiting, although the chain will provide these if needed Argos - 140 stand alone stores - Argos branches inside Sainsbury's have been operating for most of lockdown, but the chain's stand alone stores have been closed. That ends on Monday with 140 branches reopening. You can use the Argos store locator to get updates on your nearest branch
- 140 stand alone stores - Argos branches inside Sainsbury's have been operating for most of lockdown, but the chain's stand alone stores have been closed. That ends on Monday with 140 branches reopening. You can use the Argos to get updates on your nearest branch BT - After a lot of hard work behind the scenes, BT is reopening shops in England with a snazzy new SMS booking system - so if you visit when the store is full, you'll get receive a text when the shop is ready to welcome you back
- After a lot of hard work behind the scenes, BT is reopening shops in England with a snazzy new SMS booking system - so if you visit when the store is full, you'll get receive a text when the shop is ready to welcome you back Curry's/PC World - 131 stores - select stores across the UK will open as Tech Help Hubs, it's also introducing a drive-thru order and collect service
- 131 stores - select stores across the UK will open as Tech Help Hubs, it's also introducing a drive-thru order and collect service Debenhams - 50 stores in England - The first 50 Debenhams will be reopening in England on Monday, with 120 up and running again afterwards. Sadly, 20 will remain shut for good after discussions with landlords broke down.


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-14--Police 'did not have the officers' available to prevent weekend raves

The MPs whose constituencies were shaken by the illegal raves which led to three reported stabbings , an alleged rape and a death say Greater Manchester Police did not have enough officers to 'safely prevent ' the illegal gatherings .
The Saturday night raves in Oldham and Trafford were in violation of the pandemic laws which prohibit meetings of more than six people outside a household - and of 'inciting others to break the rules ' .
The Carrington rave , attended by around 2,000 people , took place at the same time as a second larger rave at Daisy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4,000 revellers descended and one man sadly died from a suspected drug overdose .
Yet Greater Manchester MPs Angela Rayner and Kate Green , whose communities were affected by the mayhem , said on Sunday that Greater Manchester Police did not have the officers available to safely prevent the events .
Greater Manchester Police , meanwhile , have said they 'carefully monitored ' both events and deployed officers to Carrington 'after a number of serious incidents ' and amid a 'surge ' in demand and emergency calls over the weekend .
They declined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - understood to have fallen by around a third over the last decade and now under greater pressure due to the pandemic .
Ms Green told the Manchester Evening News : `` Greater Manchester Police have told me they did not have the number of officers available to safely prevent the event .
`` That 's one of the reasons this was so irresponsible .
Police are very stretched , all emergency services are and they could not have safely prevented the event . ''
Ms Green added : `` I accept that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ numbers in Greater Manchester over the last years and also accept that during the Covid crisis the emergency services including the police are very very over stretched .
`` I think it 's an operational decision by the senior officers on the ground as to the best way to handle the incident but I 'm certainly concerned that the police did not have sufficient resources to be able to prevent it .
`` I 'm also pressuring the Government for greater resources because police numbers are increasing but we are suffering from years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers lost in Greater Manchester .
`` It 's a real concern and it 's why I 'm saying to people please do n't go to these events . ''
MP Angela Rayner , MP for Ashton-under-Lyne , which covers Failsworth , said she would be meeting with police and council officials on Monday to discuss the incidents and implement measures should it happen again .
She added : `` Concerns have been raised by members of the public regarding the police response to the illegal rave at Daisy Nook so I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to talk about how we can improve on this should we be unlucky enough to find ourselves in a similar situation in future .
`` The devastating cuts to the police by the Tory Government mean that our hardworking and dedicated local police forces simply do n't have the resources to deal with spikes in incidents like we saw this weekend .
When officers arrived at the scene , they were met with violence from those at the illegal rave .
`` This is not acceptable and they should not have to face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Our emergency services are stretched enough as it is so this utterly reckless behaviour must not and will not be tolerated .
Those responsible should be brought to justice and feel the full force of the law .
`` I would like to praise the mammoth effort put in by the selfless volunteers who spent hours cleaning up a mess that they did n't make to try and get Daisy Nook back to it 's usual state . ''
It 's understood the raves , attended by a total of 6,000 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carrington , Greater Manchester Police have confirmed there were three reported stabbings , one of which left an 18-year-old man with life-threatening injuries .
Two other men , aged 25 and 26 , were also injured .
A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon , with the investigation ongoing .
Police are also investigating the rape of an 18-year-old woman .
The M.E.N asked GMP whether under-staffing had prevented them from preventing or stopping the raves and they declined to respond directly to this question .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chief Constable Chris Sykes said there had been a 'surge ' of emergency calls at the weekend with a 60 per cent surge in demand via 999 calls between 5pm on Saturday and 4am on Sunday .
There were also 526 101 calls - nearly double what they would usually expect .
He added : `` These raves were illegal and I condemn them taking place - they were clearly a breach of Coronavirus legislation and guidelines , and have had tragic consequences .
`` The gatherings were carefully monitored by officers but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to balance the present public health emergency and our overall demand with ongoing incidents , which can often provide a set of unique challenges when it comes to wider public safety .
`` We also have to ensure that we strike the right balance of proportionality and fairness with our overall Coronavirus response . ''
He said that 2,000 people descended on Carrington and after a 'number of serious incidents ' and 'after careful assessment ' , officers were deployed to the scene .
On the 18-year-old man with serious injuries , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safely enter the crowds , locate the man and administer life-saving first aid before paramedics arrived .
There is no doubt in my mind that the actions of those officers provided essential treatment to the man now in hospital and I would like to thank them for their efforts .
`` Two other men – aged 25 and 26 – were also left with injuries after these separate assaults .
A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and enquiries remain ongoing to locate the suspects involved in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone with footage that could assist our enquiries to upload them to scd.cctv @ gmp.police.uk so that our team can review it .
`` We are also investigating the rape of an 18-year-old woman who attended this event and we have specialist officers supporting her and her family whilst enquiries are ongoing to trace the suspect .
Anyone with information is asked to contact police as soon as possible .
“ Sadly , officers attempting to engage with participants of this gathering were met with violence , resulting in items being thrown and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to make it clear that this is absolutely not acceptable and will not be tolerated .
Our officers are working incredibly hard to keep people safe and should never be met with inexcusable violence whilst carrying out their duties .
`` We are currently working alongside partners across Greater Manchester and are engaging with local authorities in order to seek further preventative measures and address concerns of our communities during this pandemic .
We are keen to come up with solutions that meet the needs of the community .
I also want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come out to clean the areas alongside police and members of the local authorities this morning , your support goes a long way .
`` Our top priority will always be the safety of the public , who we are here to serve and protect .
We hope the public can recognise the challenges we are facing at the moment and our communities join together in doing the right thing by following the government guidelines .
Coronavirus is still a threat and we will continue to engage with people to encourage them to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right thing .
Ultimately we need the people of Greater Manchester to join together and demonstrate the spirit that they have previously shown in the face of hard times . ''

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The MPs whose constituencies were shaken by the illegal raves which led to three reported stabbings, an alleged rape and a death say Greater Manchester Police did not have enough officers to 'safely prevent' the illegal gatherings.
The Saturday night raves in Oldham and Trafford were in violation of the pandemic laws which prohibit meetings of more than six people outside a household - and of 'inciting others to break the rules'.
The Carrington rave, attended by around 2,000 people, took place at the same time as a second larger rave at Daisy Nook Country Park in Oldham, where 4,000 revellers descended and one man sadly died from a suspected drug overdose.
Yet Greater Manchester MPs Angela Rayner and Kate Green, whose communities were affected by the mayhem, said on Sunday that Greater Manchester Police did not have the officers available to safely prevent the events.
(Image: MEN Media)
Greater Manchester Police, meanwhile, have said they 'carefully monitored' both events and deployed officers to Carrington 'after a number of serious incidents' and amid a 'surge' in demand and emergency calls over the weekend.
They declined to comment directly on their staffing levels - understood to have fallen by around a third over the last decade and now under greater pressure due to the pandemic.
Ms Green told the Manchester Evening News : "Greater Manchester Police have told me they did not have the number of officers available to safely prevent the event.
"That's one of the reasons this was so irresponsible. Police are very stretched, all emergency services are and they could not have safely prevented the event."
(Image: ASP)
Ms Green added: "I accept that we've seen huge cuts to police numbers in Greater Manchester over the last years and also accept that during the Covid crisis the emergency services including the police are very very over stretched.
"I think it's an operational decision by the senior officers on the ground as to the best way to handle the incident but I'm certainly concerned that the police did not have sufficient resources to be able to prevent it.
Sign up to the free MEN email newsletter Get the latest updates from across Greater Manchester direct to your inbox with the free MEN newsletter You can sign up very simply by following the instructions here
"I'm also pressuring the Government for greater resources because police numbers are increasing but we are suffering from years of cuts which have seen hundreds of officers lost in Greater Manchester.
"It's a real concern and it's why I'm saying to people please don't go to these events."
MP Angela Rayner, MP for Ashton-under-Lyne, which covers Failsworth,said she would be meeting with police and council officials on Monday to discuss the incidents and implement measures should it happen again.
She added: "Concerns have been raised by members of the public regarding the police response to the illegal rave at Daisy Nook so I am meeting with them and council officials tomorrow to talk about how we can improve on this should we be unlucky enough to find ourselves in a similar situation in future.
"The devastating cuts to the police by the Tory Government mean that our hardworking and dedicated local police forces simply don't have the resources to deal with spikes in incidents like we saw this weekend. When officers arrived at the scene, they were met with violence from those at the illegal rave.
"This is not acceptable and they should not have to face this abuse in the line of duty. Our emergency services are stretched enough as it is so this utterly reckless behaviour must not and will not be tolerated. Those responsible should be brought to justice and feel the full force of the law.
"I would like to praise the mammoth effort put in by the selfless volunteers who spent hours cleaning up a mess that they didn't make to try and get Daisy Nook back to it's usual state."
It's understood the raves, attended by a total of 6,000 people - were advertised on social media
(Image: ASP)
At Carrington, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed there were three reported stabbings, one of which left an 18-year-old man with life-threatening injuries.
Two other men, aged 25 and 26, were also injured. A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon, with the investigation ongoing.
Police are also investigating the rape of an 18-year-old woman.
At Daisy Nook a man sadly died from a suspected drug overdose.
The M.E.N asked GMP whether under-staffing had prevented them from preventing or stopping the raves and they declined to respond directly to this question.
However, in an earlier statement, Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes said there had been a 'surge' of emergency calls at the weekend with a 60 per cent surge in demand via 999 calls between 5pm on Saturday and 4am on Sunday.
There were also 526 101 calls - nearly double what they would usually expect.
He added: "These raves were illegal and I condemn them taking place - they were clearly a breach of Coronavirus legislation and guidelines, and have had tragic consequences.
"The gatherings were carefully monitored by officers but, like all forces, we needed to balance the present public health emergency and our overall demand with ongoing incidents, which can often provide a set of unique challenges when it comes to wider public safety.
"We also have to ensure that we strike the right balance of proportionality and fairness with our overall Coronavirus response."
He said that 2,000 people descended on Carrington and after a 'number of serious incidents' and 'after careful assessment', officers were deployed to the scene.
On the 18-year-old man with serious injuries, he added: "Police officers managed to safely enter the crowds, locate the man and administer life-saving first aid before paramedics arrived. There is no doubt in my mind that the actions of those officers provided essential treatment to the man now in hospital and I would like to thank them for their efforts.
"Two other men – aged 25 and 26 – were also left with injuries after these separate assaults. A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and enquiries remain ongoing to locate the suspects involved in these incidents. I would also ask anyone with footage that could assist our enquiries to upload them to scd.cctv@gmp.police.uk so that our team can review it.
"We are also investigating the rape of an 18-year-old woman who attended this event and we have specialist officers supporting her and her family whilst enquiries are ongoing to trace the suspect. Anyone with information is asked to contact police as soon as possible.
“Sadly, officers attempting to engage with participants of this gathering were met with violence, resulting in items being thrown and a police car being vandalised. I want to make it clear that this is absolutely not acceptable and will not be tolerated. Our officers are working incredibly hard to keep people safe and should never be met with inexcusable violence whilst carrying out their duties.
(Image: MEN Media)
"We are currently working alongside partners across Greater Manchester and are engaging with local authorities in order to seek further preventative measures and address concerns of our communities during this pandemic. We are keen to come up with solutions that meet the needs of the community. I also want to thank those community members that have come out to clean the areas alongside police and members of the local authorities this morning, your support goes a long way.
"Our top priority will always be the safety of the public, who we are here to serve and protect. We hope the public can recognise the challenges we are facing at the moment and our communities join together in doing the right thing by following the government guidelines. Coronavirus is still a threat and we will continue to engage with people to encourage them to take some personal responsibility and do the right thing. Ultimately we need the people of Greater Manchester to join together and demonstrate the spirit that they have previously shown in the face of hard times."


themanchestereveningnews--2020-06-14--A further three Covid-19 deaths at Greater Manchester's hospitals

A further three people have died after testing positive for coronavirus across Greater Manchester ’ s hospitals .
That brings the total number of Covid-19 deaths across the region ’ s hospitals to 1,972 , according to the latest data from NHS England .
A further two people being treated by medics within Stockport NHS Foundation Trust have died .
While one more person has died at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust hospitals .
The total number of coronavirus deaths at hospital trusts in Greater Manchester , as of Sunday , June 14 , is : On a daily basis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of deaths that have been recorded at each hospital trust in England in the last 24 hours .
These are deaths where the person had tested positive for the virus or where COVID-19 was mentioned on their death certificate .
These often include previously uncounted deaths that took place several days - or even weeks ago .
This is because of the time it takes for deaths to be confirmed as testing positive for COVID-19 , for post-mortem examinations to be processed and for data from the tests to be validated .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the wider community - including care homes .
Some of the larger trusts run several hospitals in Greater Manchester .

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A further three people have died after testing positive for coronavirus across Greater Manchester’s hospitals.
That brings the total number of Covid-19 deaths across the region’s hospitals to 1,972, according to the latest data from NHS England.
A further two people being treated by medics within Stockport NHS Foundation Trust have died.
While one more person has died at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust hospitals.
The total number of coronavirus deaths at hospital trusts in Greater Manchester, as of Sunday, June 14, is:
Bolton NHS Foundation Trust - 221
Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust - 9
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust - 408
NHS Nightingale Hospital North West - 6
Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust - 510
Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust - 6
Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust - 174
Stockport NHS Foundation Trust - 201
Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust - 177
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust - 13
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust - 247
On a daily basis the NHS publishes data relating to the number of deaths that have been recorded at each hospital trust in England in the last 24 hours.
These are deaths where the person had tested positive for the virus or where COVID-19 was mentioned on their death certificate.
These often include previously uncounted deaths that took place several days - or even weeks ago. This is because of the time it takes for deaths to be confirmed as testing positive for COVID-19, for post-mortem examinations to be processed and for data from the tests to be validated.
The figures do not include COVID-19 fatalities in the wider community - including care homes.
Some of the larger trusts run several hospitals in Greater Manchester.
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust oversees the Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI), Wythenshawe Hospital and Trafford General.