Dr. Amy Proal, a leading expert on Long COVID, discusses her research on the role of viral reservoirs in the persistence of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19. Long COVID is a group of health problems that can affect various organs and is often debilitating. It is estimated that hundreds of millions of people globally may be suffering from Long COVID symptoms. Dr. Proal's work sheds light on the ongoing dangers of the pandemic and the need for further understanding and support for those affected.
A cohort study conducted by the US Department of Veterans Affairs found that treatment with the antiviral drug molnupiravir within five days of a positive COVID-19 test result was associated with a reduced risk of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) in people with at least one risk factor for severe COVID-19. The study also found that molnupiravir was associated with reduced risk of post-acute death, post-acute hospital admission, and eight of the 13 prespecified post-acute sequelae. The findings suggest that molnupiravir use may be a viable approach to reduce the risk of PASC in people at high risk of severe COVID-19.