There's a graphic I saw showing that the first covid wave in march 2020 was approximately 20 times as severe as normal flu: the current strains are around twice as bad. So it will also depend on when you got covid, as well as whether you're vaxxed
I got covid in March 2020 on the
Camino de Santiago I think - I fell really sick 4 days after having to leave the csmino for lockdown
I was really I'll and triaged to crisis nurse
I couldn't speak for 12 days, couldn't walk a mile for 5 months, couldn't walk and talk simultaneously for a year. Couldn't cycle for 18 months. Couldn't swim for 20 months. Still can't run and i don't think that's ever coming back
I have long covid and brain fog etc, other disabilities and now have severe asthma. I can also get overloaded by mental exertion as well as physical which is so weird
But I trained and I walked 200 miles to Glasgow in September
And I am planning to restart the Camino in 6 weeks, God willing
I would say base your camino on how far you can walk now. If you can build up to like a 15k walk without being toxically tired the next day I reckon you'll be ok. I trained for the walk to Glasgow and I was nervous. I overdid it a couple of times but I arrived. I did 12- 20k each day in a group
My plan is:
Leave plenty of time (I have left 42 days not including travel. But my flight home was like £15 so I will buy a new one if I have to rather than stress to arrive). Take rest days. Prioritise rest and sleep. Take a credit card and use it if you need a break or to go home.
Be aware of what really takes it out of you. Mine will be steep uphills, lots of upward steps and walking in traffic / polluted air. I will be aware I need rest after that
Although this thread is quite sad in some ways, if we are able to walk it will be the greatest gift
It looks like there may be some long covid/ post covid plus other pilgrim families that form this year. I hope so!
Many blessings and buen Camino xxx