Long COVID Causing Disability – Expert Warns of Stronger Outbreak

If specialists fully understand the mechanisms causing long COVID, they may be able to help patients with a monoclonal antibody, following clinical trials, according to Gikas Magiorkinis, Associate Professor of Hygiene and Epidemiology. In an interview with Praktoreio FM, Magiorkinis noted that long COVID now seems to have less impact than during the early waves of the coronavirus for patients; however, it still causes disability in a significant number of individuals. The problems caused can include neurological symptoms, breathing difficulties, fatigue, and more. Long COVID significantly disrupts daily life for some people, keeping them away from work. Unfortunately, there are not many tools available to address this condition. Researchers at the University’s participation in a European study alongside Spain, France, Italy, and Croatia aim to explore what causes long COVID. A key finding is that certain parts of our DNA become activated in patients with conditions like multiple sclerosis, producing a toxic protein for nerves. If researchers confirm this protein is elevated in long COVID patients, intervention with a monoclonal antibody targeting the protein could theoretically help. Despite ongoing studies since three years ago, uncertainty remains about potential outbreaks. Experts remain cautious due to the epidemiological silence observed since November 2024, possibly leading to a summer outbreak. The Nimbus variant is under scrutiny as a potential cause, with increased cases reported in Asia but moderate numbers in Europe so far. Symptoms may include intense muscle pain and sore throat rather than the classic cough seen in previous variants. Current tests appear effective in detecting this variant.