Viral Reactivation in Long COVID

Summary

Humans naturally harbor many chronically infecting viruses, which stay dormant or "sleeping." Acute viral infections and other stressors can potentially reactivate or "wake up" these dormant viruses. Our research focuses on whether COVID-19 causes dormant viruses to reactivate, and if so, whether this contributes to long-term symptoms of Long COVID.  

​ ​We have previously studied 1,154 hospitalized COVID-19 patients and found that three main families of viruses frequently “wake up” during COVID-19: Herpes family viruses, Enteroviruses, and Anelloviruses. Importantly, we found that patients with more severe COVID-19 had more viruses “waking up” in association with higher inflammatory immune markers. Most significantly, we discovered that patients with “awakened” Anelloviruses (ie Anellovirus RNA in patient samples) were more likely to experience Long COVID symptoms, particularly affecting physical function and fatigue. 

​ ​We are now seeking to validate our observed viral associations in a dedicated Long COVID dataset. For this validation, we are requesting access to raw RNA sequences, as these are required for viral sequence alignment, since processed gene counts are insufficient for our specialized analysis technique. 

​ ​This research may lead to improved diagnostic tests and targeted treatments for both acute COVID-19 and Long COVID. By identifying specific chronically infecting viruses that contribute to ongoing symptoms, our approach could provide new therapeutic pathways for millions suffering from Long COVID globally, with broader implications for understanding viral persistence across various post-viral syndromes.​