Scientific Breakthrough Identifies Root Cause of Long Covid
For many across the UK, the acute threat of Covid-19 has faded into memory. However, a significant number of people continue to suffer from the debilitating effects of long Covid, a syndrome where symptoms persist or develop more than twelve weeks after the initial infection. These symptoms often include extreme fatigue, breathlessness, and muscle weakness.
The Groundbreaking Blood Analysis
A pivotal new study, published in the Journal of Medical Virology, offers a major clue to this medical mystery. An international research team, led by Professor Alain Thierry of Montpellier University in collaboration with South African physiologist Professor Resia Pretorius, conducted a detailed analysis of blood samples from 50 individuals with long Covid and 38 healthy volunteers.
The results were striking. The team discovered that blood from long Covid patients contained nearly 20 times more microclots compared to blood from healthy participants. Furthermore, these clots were notably larger in size.
How 'Sticky Webs' Block Blood Flow
Delving deeper, the scientists found these microclots are filled with structures known as neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NETs are webs of DNA and enzymes that white blood cells normally release to trap invading viruses. Typically, these webs perform their function and then disintegrate.
However, in the long Covid patients, the research revealed a critical malfunction. The webs were physically embedded within the microclots, creating a resilient structure. This abnormal combination impedes blood flow through the body's tiniest blood vessels, the capillaries, and strongly resists the body's natural clean-up processes.
NHS Reinforces Winter Infection Control Measures
This research emerges as the NHS in the Midlands has issued updated guidance on face masks for the winter season. With flu infections beginning to rise and Covid-19 still circulating, the health body is urging the public to wear masks if requested when visiting healthcare institutions.
Kirsty Morgan, the assistant director of infection prevention and control for the NHS in the Midlands, emphasised the role of simple measures in controlling the spread. She stated on X: "Whilst there are no mandated requirements for people to wear masks, wearing face masks if asked when visiting healthcare settings and washing your hands will help us to reduce the spread of infection this winter."
Data from the UK Health Security Agency indicates that while Covid infections may have seen a slight decrease, flu is back on the rise. Virus testing positivity for the week ending November 2 shot up by 11.6 per cent.
