COVID-19 in Brain (and rest of body) up to 8 months (so far)

In summary, a pre-print from a group of researchers at the NIH has found that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is widely distributed throughout the body, even in patients with mild or no symptoms. The virus can also persist in the body for up to 230 days after symptom onset, including in the brain. However, there is a lack of inflammation or direct viral damage outside of the lungs. This research sheds light on the existence of long COVID and raises questions about the long-term effects of the virus.
  • #1
Tom.G
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It's a pre-print from a bunch of researchers at the NIH.
https://assets.researchsquare.com/files/rs-1139035/v1_covered.pdf?c=1640020576

SARS-CoV-2 infection and persistence throughout the human body and brain

We show that
SARS-CoV-2 is widely distributed, even among patients who died with asymptomatic to
mild COVID-19, and that virus replication is present in multiple pulmonary and
extrapulmonary tissues early in infection. Further, we detected persistent SARS-CoV-2
RNA in multiple anatomic sites, including regions throughout the brain, for up to 230 days
following symptom onset. Despite extensive distribution of SARS-CoV-2 in the body, we
observed a paucity of inflammation or direct viral cytopathology outside of the lungs. Our
data prove that SARS-CoV-2 causes systemic infection and can persist in the body for
months.

No wonder Long Covid exists! ?:)
 
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wow, that sux . . .
 
  • #3
These are only in very sick patients. 80% if these cases were ventilated, and 20% had ecmo. So it doesn't say much about long Covid in say triply vaxxed people who don't need hospitalization, maybe not even those who are hospitalized but don't need icu treatment.
 
  • #4
Tom.G said:
No wonder Long Covid exists!
And the full effect may not be known/evident for two or more decades as people age and develop comorbidities, if they don't already have one or more.

It would be interesting to know what treatment long Covid patients received, e.g., did they get Remdesivir or other antiviral medications and/or monoclonal antibody treatments. Clearly, not everyone gets access to such medications.
 
  • #5
Another question is, what about similar studies on other viruses. As I understand it, the chicken pox virus remains in your body for the rest of your life, which is why it causes shingles later in life.
 
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FAQ: COVID-19 in Brain (and rest of body) up to 8 months (so far)

What is COVID-19 and how does it affect the brain?

COVID-19 is a highly infectious respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus. While it primarily affects the respiratory system, it can also impact other parts of the body, including the brain. Studies have shown that COVID-19 can cause neurological symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and even strokes in some cases. This is because the virus can enter the brain and cause inflammation and damage to brain cells.

What are the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the brain?

While research is ongoing, some studies have shown that COVID-19 can have long-term effects on the brain, even after the virus has cleared from the body. These effects can include cognitive impairments, such as difficulty concentrating and memory loss, as well as mental health issues like anxiety and depression. It is important to continue monitoring and studying the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the brain.

Can COVID-19 cause brain damage?

In severe cases, COVID-19 can cause brain damage due to the virus's ability to enter the brain and cause inflammation and damage to brain cells. This can lead to long-term neurological issues and impairments. However, not everyone who contracts COVID-19 will experience brain damage, and more research is needed to fully understand the extent of the virus's impact on the brain.

How can COVID-19 affect other parts of the body besides the brain?

While the brain is one of the most commonly affected areas by COVID-19, the virus can also impact other parts of the body. This includes the respiratory system, heart, kidneys, and digestive system. COVID-19 can cause severe respiratory issues, such as pneumonia, as well as damage to other organs, which can lead to long-term health complications.

What measures can be taken to protect the brain from COVID-19?

The best way to protect the brain from COVID-19 is to follow recommended safety measures, such as wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and washing your hands frequently. These measures can help prevent the spread of the virus and reduce the risk of contracting it. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can also help support overall brain health during the pandemic.

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