- A new Patient-Led Research Collaborative preprint* found that COVID-19 reinfections increase the likelihood of Long COVID and related diseases. “While vaccinations and boosters prior to infection are associated with lower likelihood of Long COVID, reinfections diminish their protective effect,” the authors wrote. Read more about reinfections from our reporting earlier this year, featuring one of the authors of this study.
- A new preclinical study in Advanced Materials describes a broad-spectrum, drug-free nasal spray that neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens when studied in a test tube. The study suggests this spray could prevent infection for cells in the nose, but other parts of the respiratory system are also exposed to pathogens from airborne particles. At this time, research suggests that nasal sprays are much less effective at preventing COVID-19 than high-quality masks, ventilation, and air purification.
- A new Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis review highlighted persistent thrombotic endothelialitis (blood vessel inflammation) as one of the potential primary pathologies driving Long COVID. It highlighted the importance of treating Long COVID early and offered a list of potential treatments for patients and providers. “A considerable international effort is required for all nations and economies to better understand and appreciate the vast pathophysiological mechanisms and sequelae of this disease,” the authors wrote.
*Editor’s note: The Patient-Led Research Collaborative, like The Sick Times, has received support from the Balvi and Kanro funds. Our newsroom operates independently of financial supporters.
*Editor’s note, October 21: The description of the nasal spray study in Advanced Materials has been updated to more accurately describe the research and provide context. Thank you to reader @mathissweet who flagged this error and assisted with the update.
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