Recent studies have unveiled a troubling connection between Covid-19 and cognitive decline, suggesting that even mild infections can lead to a measurable reduction in intelligence. This revelation, supported by extensive research from institutions around the world, has sparked concern among scientists and the general public alike. These study findings and the implications for individuals and society are worrisome and unsettling.

The evidence: Studies highlight cognitive impact

A groundbreaking study conducted by a coalition of prestigious institutions, including George Mason University, Research Centre for Medical Genetics in Russia, and several universities in China, has highlighted the significant impact of Covid on intelligence. Utilizing Mendelian randomization (MR) to analyse data from nearly 270,000 individuals, the researchers discovered a striking association between Covid outcomes and intelligence levels. The study’s findings indicate that genetic vulnerabilities to SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe Covid have causal effects on intelligence, with even hospitalised cases showing evidence of cognitive decline.

Further supporting this, a study by researchers from Washington University in St. Louis-USA published in the New England Journal of Medicine assessed the cognitive function of 800,000 adults from the Real-Time Assessment of Community Transmission (REACT) study in England.

 

The researchers found that individuals who had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 exhibited cognitive deficits equivalent to a 3-point drop in IQ. Those with long Covid, defined as symptoms persisting for more than 12 weeks, experienced an average IQ drop of 6 points, while those who required intensive care faced an alarming 9-point reduction. These deficits were evident even in individuals who had mild Covid with resolved symptoms.

Photo by Robina Weermeijer on Unsplash

Molecular mechanisms: How Covid affects the brain

The detrimental effects of Covid on the brain are linked to several molecular mechanisms. The virus can induce neuroinflammation, leading to a decline in neurocognitive function. Functional pathways constructed during the studies revealed that Covid-related pathological changes occur not only in the brain but also in multiple peripheral systems, suggesting a complex interplay between the virus, the immune system, the nervous system, and microvessels.

Further research has shown that SARS-CoV-2 infection induces fusion of neurons, compromising neuronal activity and leading to cognitive impairment. Prolonged neuroinflammatory responses, structural abnormalities, and accelerated brain ageing have been observed in individuals with mild-to-moderate Covid infection. Additionally, the presence of the virus in brain tissue samples obtained during autopsies of severe Covid cases underscores the direct impact of the virus on the brain.

Long-term implications: A Potential intelligence crisis

The long-term implications of Covid-induced cognitive decline are profound and far-reaching. A decline in intelligence can hinder personal and professional growth, academic achievement, and overall societal advancement. The ability to think, reason, and make informed decisions is fundamental to progress and innovation. If a significant portion of the population experiences cognitive impairment due to Covid, industries reliant on intellectual capabilities, such as research, technology, and creative fields, could face substantial challenges.

Moreover, the burden on healthcare systems and support services may increase as more individuals require specialised care, educational resources, and cognitive rehabilitation programs. Economic productivity and innovation may suffer, leading to broader societal and economic repercussions.

The study’s findings also raise important questions about the potential long-term health consequences of Covid. Will individuals with Covid-associated cognitive deficits face a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia later in life? The effects on educational attainment, work performance, and activities requiring intact cognitive abilities warrant further investigation. Additionally, disentangling the cognitive effects of Covid infection from the broader impacts of the pandemic, such as social isolation and trauma, is crucial for a comprehensive understanding.

 

Photo by Elimende Inagella on Unsplash

Moving forward: Prioritizing research and public health

As we continue to navigate the ongoing pandemic, it is imperative to prioritise research, public health measures, and support systems that address both the immediate and long-term impacts of Covid on cognitive health. Longitudinal studies tracking individuals over time and more in-depth investigations into the molecular mechanisms involved are essential to fully understand the extent of the virus’s impact on intelligence.

The findings of these studies serve as a wake-up call, emphasizing that Covid is not merely a respiratory illness but a multifaceted threat affecting various aspects of our health, including our cognitive abilities. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from the scientific community, healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public to mitigate the long-term consequences and build a resilient future.

The evidence linking Covid to cognitive decline is compelling and concerning. The potential for a widespread reduction in intelligence due to the virus underscores the importance of continued research and proactive public health measures. As we strive to overcome the pandemic, understanding and addressing its impact on our cognitive health is crucial for ensuring the well-being and progress of individuals and society as a whole.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Nikhil Prasad

Dr. Nikhil Prasad is an independent researcher, medical, pharma and health PR consultant, herbalists and phytochemical specialists and a medical and health writer for numerous international publications and sites including his own sites such as Thailand Medical News. He is based either at Sydney, New York, Shanghai, Mumbai or Bangkok.

on a lighter note, COVID deniers are probably almost immune to these effects.

lucky   those who took the vaccines where protected from this adverse effect...  right ?

those moronic "antivaxers"  serves them right for becoming dumber ..right ?

 

52 minutes ago, CharlieH said:

If a significant portion of the population experiences cognitive impairment due to Covid, industries reliant on intellectual capabilities, such as research, technology, and creative fields, could face substantial challenges.

 

Don't worry  AI  to the rescue and just in time it seems.

or

 

An off-topic trolling post has been removed.

 

Got a mate that I have known for 10 years and he had Covid and was in ER for 2 weeks.  When he came out of hospital he was 'less than optimal' for about 6 months.  Never fully recovered and he now has a few 'memory holes'.  

 

Before I got covid I was a complete nincompoop and no good to anybody....since then my life changed completely and a nicer more intelligent person you would not wish to meet....I have to beat away the advances of Thai ladies nowadays and it becomes tedious at times...........

The study doesn't seem to differentiate between patients that has Covid and a vaccine jab and those who got Covid and had zero jabs. How could they possibly tell if the drop in IQ was due to Covid or the jab. Of course, they don't want to talk about that because they are still pushing the vaccines and will continue to do so with fearmongering about other pandemics to come. 

It may have something to do with the fact that there's little evidence that COVID vaccinations, to any significant extent, cause the kind of mental impairment / brain fog that many studies have documented IS among the characteristic symptoms of so-called Long (post infection) COVID.

 

In fact, the bulk of research shows just the opposite, that COVID vaccination overall reduces the risk of symptoms from Long COVID.

 

Vaccination Dramatically Lowers Long COVID Risk

 

Several new studies reveal that getting multiple COVID vaccine doses provides strong protection against lingering symptoms

 

January 3, 2024

 

"At least 200 million people worldwide have struggled with long COVID: a slew of symptoms that can persist for months or even years after an infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID. But research suggests that that number would likely be much higher if not for vaccines.

 

A growing consensus is emerging that receiving multiple doses of the COVID vaccine before an initial infection can dramatically reduce the risk of long-term symptoms. Although the studies disagree on the exact amount of protection, they show a clear trend: the more shots in your arm before your first bout with COVID, the less likely you are to get long COVID. One meta-analysis of 24 studies published in October, for example, found that people who’d had three doses of the COVID vaccine were 68.7 percent less likely to develop long COVID compared with those who were unvaccinated.

 

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/vaccination-dramatically-lowers-long-covid-risk/

 

AND

‘Brain fog’ of long Covid comparable to ageing 10 years, study finds

Symptoms of infection can last two years, but researchers find no lasting cognitive impairment after individuals fully recover

 

Fri 21 Jul 2023

 

The so-called “brain fog” symptom associated with long Covid is comparable to ageing 10 years, researchers have suggested.

 

In a study by King’s College London, researchers investigated the impact of Covid-19 on memory and found cognitive impairment highest in individuals who had tested positive and had more than three months of symptoms.

 

The study, published on Friday in a clinical journal published by The Lancet, also found the symptoms in affected individuals stretched to almost two years since initial infection.

 

(more)

 

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/21/long-covid-brain-fog-ageing-10-years-study

 

 

Yes covid made quite a few people stupid!

Those queuing round a carpark for the 8th booster!

 

Ah I miss the old days 

This was one in our city!

A post with unsourced claims/allegations has been removed for contravening the forum's rules.

 

"In factual areas such as news forums and current affairs topics member content that is claimed or portrayed as a fact should be supported by a link to a relevant reputable source."

 

 

Even worse is the stupidity that comes from the obsessive fear of covid. Nowadays, it is just a flu. 

On 5/31/2024 at 3:13 PM, CharlieH said:

Recent studies have unveiled a troubling connection between Covid-19 and cognitive decline, suggesting that even mild infections can lead to a measurable reduction in intelligence. This revelation, supported by extensive research from institutions around the world, has sparked concern among scientists and the general public alike. These study findings and the implications for individuals and society are worrisome and unsettling.

The evidence: Studies highlight cognitive impact

A groundbreaking study conducted by a coalition of prestigious institutions, including George Mason University, Research Centre for Medical Genetics in Russia, and several universities in China, has highlighted the significant impact of Covid on intelligence. Utilizing Mendelian randomization (MR) to analyse data from nearly 270,000 individuals, the researchers discovered a striking association between Covid outcomes and intelligence levels. The study’s findings indicate that genetic vulnerabilities to SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe Covid have causal effects on intelligence, with even hospitalised cases showing evidence of cognitive decline.

Further supporting this, a study by researchers from Washington University in St. Louis-USA published in the New England Journal of Medicine assessed the cognitive function of 800,000 adults from the Real-Time Assessment of Community Transmission (REACT) study in England.

 

The researchers found that individuals who had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 exhibited cognitive deficits equivalent to a 3-point drop in IQ. Those with long Covid, defined as symptoms persisting for more than 12 weeks, experienced an average IQ drop of 6 points, while those who required intensive care faced an alarming 9-point reduction. These deficits were evident even in individuals who had mild Covid with resolved symptoms.

Photo by Robina Weermeijer on Unsplash

Molecular mechanisms: How Covid affects the brain

The detrimental effects of Covid on the brain are linked to several molecular mechanisms. The virus can induce neuroinflammation, leading to a decline in neurocognitive function. Functional pathways constructed during the studies revealed that Covid-related pathological changes occur not only in the brain but also in multiple peripheral systems, suggesting a complex interplay between the virus, the immune system, the nervous system, and microvessels.

Further research has shown that SARS-CoV-2 infection induces fusion of neurons, compromising neuronal activity and leading to cognitive impairment. Prolonged neuroinflammatory responses, structural abnormalities, and accelerated brain ageing have been observed in individuals with mild-to-moderate Covid infection. Additionally, the presence of the virus in brain tissue samples obtained during autopsies of severe Covid cases underscores the direct impact of the virus on the brain.

Long-term implications: A Potential intelligence crisis

The long-term implications of Covid-induced cognitive decline are profound and far-reaching. A decline in intelligence can hinder personal and professional growth, academic achievement, and overall societal advancement. The ability to think, reason, and make informed decisions is fundamental to progress and innovation. If a significant portion of the population experiences cognitive impairment due to Covid, industries reliant on intellectual capabilities, such as research, technology, and creative fields, could face substantial challenges.

Moreover, the burden on healthcare systems and support services may increase as more individuals require specialised care, educational resources, and cognitive rehabilitation programs. Economic productivity and innovation may suffer, leading to broader societal and economic repercussions.

The study’s findings also raise important questions about the potential long-term health consequences of Covid. Will individuals with Covid-associated cognitive deficits face a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia later in life? The effects on educational attainment, work performance, and activities requiring intact cognitive abilities warrant further investigation. Additionally, disentangling the cognitive effects of Covid infection from the broader impacts of the pandemic, such as social isolation and trauma, is crucial for a comprehensive understanding.

 

Photo by Elimende Inagella on Unsplash

Moving forward: Prioritizing research and public health

As we continue to navigate the ongoing pandemic, it is imperative to prioritise research, public health measures, and support systems that address both the immediate and long-term impacts of Covid on cognitive health. Longitudinal studies tracking individuals over time and more in-depth investigations into the molecular mechanisms involved are essential to fully understand the extent of the virus’s impact on intelligence.

The findings of these studies serve as a wake-up call, emphasizing that Covid is not merely a respiratory illness but a multifaceted threat affecting various aspects of our health, including our cognitive abilities. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from the scientific community, healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public to mitigate the long-term consequences and build a resilient future.

The evidence linking Covid to cognitive decline is compelling and concerning. The potential for a widespread reduction in intelligence due to the virus underscores the importance of continued research and proactive public health measures. As we strive to overcome the pandemic, understanding and addressing its impact on our cognitive health is crucial for ensuring the well-being and progress of individuals and society as a whole.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Nikhil Prasad

Dr. Nikhil Prasad is an independent researcher, medical, pharma and health PR consultant, herbalists and phytochemical specialists and a medical and health writer for numerous international publications and sites including his own sites such as Thailand Medical News. He is based either at Sydney, New York, Shanghai, Mumbai or Bangkok.

Even there would be evidence.....many got this "disease" without COVID.

😂

I miss social distancing. 

7 hours ago, spidermike007 said:

Even worse is the stupidity that comes from the obsessive fear of covid. Nowadays, it is just a flu. 

"COVID-19 vs Seasonal Influenza: A Comparative Analysis Reveals Alarming Trends," January 2, 2024

https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/

"The high rates of death and disability from SARS-CoV-2, compared to seasonal influenza, along with its increased infectivity, makes slowing viral spread and development of next-generation vaccines imperative."

7 hours ago, newbee2022 said:

Even there would be evidence.....many got this "disease" without COVID.

😂

And you are the perfect example of your claim, since you think there is a need to ALWAYS include every extensive OP in your one line replies

 

 

 

No, COVID is not just like the flu in the extent of illness and death caused, even in current times.

 

 

 

Source:

23 minutes ago, CallumWK said:

And you are the perfect example of your claim, since you think there is a need to ALWAYS include every extensive OP in your one line replies

 

 

 

Explain what you mean. I got COVID already 😂

On 6/5/2024 at 5:26 AM, TroubleandGrumpy said:

Got a mate that I have known for 10 years and he had Covid and was in ER for 2 weeks.  When he came out of hospital he was 'less than optimal' for about 6 months.  Never fully recovered and he now has a few 'memory holes'.  

 

 

What did they do to him in the hospital?

What drugs did they give him?

1 hour ago, BigBruv said:

 

What did they do to him in the hospital?

What drugs did they give him?

Dont know - and you could ne right and maybe it was the treatment. It was early on and maybe they got it wrong. 

Hmmm…. For years i have claimed to be disabled by stupidity, NOW i know why?

2 hours ago, BigBruv said:

 

What did they do to him in the hospital?

What drugs did they give him?

You wanna find the problems, look at the pills the person is taking 

24 minutes ago, Robert Paulson said:

You wanna find the problems, look at the pills the person is taking 

So it wasn't COVID?

WOW then many farangs inhere been effected without they know 

A post has been removed for violating the following forum rule:

 

"14. You will not post slurs, degrading or overly negative comments directed towards Thailand, Thai people..."

On 6/5/2024 at 11:50 AM, fittobethaied said:

The study doesn't seem to differentiate between patients that has Covid and a vaccine jab and those who got Covid and had zero jabs. How could they possibly tell if the drop in IQ was due to Covid or the jab. Of course, they don't want to talk about that because they are still pushing the vaccines and will continue to do so with fearmongering about other pandemics to come. 

Perhaps they couldn't make a reasonable study because of the great disparity in the death rates between the two. There are less of the latter still alive for comparison.

Still making me stupid that people believed this nonsense 

Science & Tech Spotlight: Social Distancing During Pandemics

U.S. GAO-20-545SP Published: May 13, 2020

 

"A CDC guideline based on historical studies of selected infections says that the area of highest risk is within 3 feet of an infected person. Some studies suggest a buffer of 6 feet may further reduce risk.

 

Other studies examining droplet dispersion in sneezing and coughing found they can go more than 6 feet. Also, viral material may persist in the air within a room for up to 3 hours.

...

These studies showed that sneezing and coughing can propel droplets more than 2 meters, with sneezing possibly propelling them further, and breathing less than 1 meter (fig. 2)."

https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-20-545sp

 

Even early on in the pandemic, the science and past research were providing some answers about what kind of protections were needed to protect people and limit the transmission of the COVID virus. And the guidance the CDC adopted for social distancing, the CDC's 6 foot standard, was within the parameters laid out by that past research.

but mamma said life was like a box of chocolates. 

2 hours ago, TallGuyJohninBKK said:

Science & Tech Spotlight: Social Distancing During Pandemics

U.S. GAO-20-545SP Published: May 13, 2020

 

"A CDC guideline based on historical studies of selected infections says that the area of highest risk is within 3 feet of an infected person. Some studies suggest a buffer of 6 feet may further reduce risk.

 

Other studies examining droplet dispersion in sneezing and coughing found they can go more than 6 feet. Also, viral material may persist in the air within a room for up to 3 hours.

...

These studies showed that sneezing and coughing can propel droplets more than 2 meters, with sneezing possibly propelling them further, and breathing less than 1 meter (fig. 2)."

https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-20-545sp

 

Even early on in the pandemic, the science and past research were providing some answers about what kind of protections were needed to protect people and limit the transmission of the COVID virus. And the guidance the CDC adopted for social distancing, the CDC's 6 foot standard, was within the parameters laid out by that past research.

yes,,  stay far apart ..   wear a paper diaper on your face,  even while driving alone in your car...  then sit down to dinner with 10 people and share from the same bowls and platters with the spoons everyone already had in their mouth.     

yeah.    Mama Gump had it right ...  

2 hours ago, Luuk Chaai said:

yes,,  stay far apart ..   wear a paper diaper on your face,  even while driving alone in your car...  then sit down to dinner with 10 people and share from the same bowls and platters with the spoons everyone already had in their mouth.     

yeah.    Mama Gump had it right ...  

People not adhering to the guidelines doesn't mean the guidelines are wrong.