A potential new coronavirus symptom, affecting people under the age of 30, has been identified by researchers.

“Covid back” could be a sign of Covid-19 in people under the age of 30, a new report suggests.

The past 18 months have seen a 64 per cent rise in people aged 18-29 reporting back problems.

Causes for the problem could be the shift to working from home with many working from makeshift work stations.

Among those who have reported back pain, 56 per cent said it was in their lower back while 23 per cent complained of aches and pains in their neck or shoulder blades.

Dr Gill Jenkins, advisor to www.mindyourbackuk.com, said: "For the six in ten Brits who have been mostly or always working from home during the pandemic and are now hybrid working, almost half don't have constant access to a table and supportive chair during their working day.

"And unfortunately, 20 per cent have to work while sitting on a sofa or bed. This plays absolute havoc with posture and spine health."

Dr Jenkins added: "Caring for our backs can reduce stress and boost energy so we can live our lives to the full, without pains and aches.”