Scientists worry that persistent cognitive issues caused by Covid signal that a surge in dementia cases and other mental conditions is on the horizon. Five years after the pandemic began, researchers are increasingly recognizing the toll Covid can take on brain health. Many of those who have had the disease struggle with persistent issues such as brain fog, depression and cognitive slowing, hindering their ability to work and otherwise function. Scientists have found that those who have had Covid are more likely to have elevated levels in their blood of the same proteins that are prevalent in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers are concerned that the findings could be early warning signs of a future surge in cases of dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions, prolonging Covid’s societal, economic, and health burden.