Covid-19 Can Reawaken Dormant Viruses in the Body, Which Might Worsen Symptoms of the Respiratory Illness, Study Suggests
Most people carry a sleeping virus in their bodies, such as the herpesvirus that causes mononucleosis, or the “kissing disease.” A new study hints that Covid-19 triggers their reactivation, which could worsen symptoms and increase the risk of long Covid
A new study suggests that Covid-19 may awaken dormant viruses within the body, potentially worsening symptoms of both the acute illness and long Covid. Researchers examined over 1,000 unvaccinated patients hospitalized with Covid-19, finding that nearly half experienced reactivation of viruses within 40 days of hospital admission.
Common reactivations included cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus, and Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1). These findings, published in the journal Nature, challenge the assumption that weakened immune systems are solely responsible for viral reactivation. The study also found that reactivation of anelloviruses, previously considered harmless, was associated with symptoms of long Covid, such as fatigue and physical difficulties.
While the study doesn't conclusively prove that reawakened viruses cause long Covid, it suggests they may contribute to immune dysregulation. The researchers emphasize the need for further investigation into potential treatment strategies for severe Covid-19 infections and long Covid recovery, especially as the virus continues to impact millions worldwide.
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