Long COVID May Unlock Treatments for ME/CFS, MS
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Overview
A new research center, the Post-Acute Viral Infection diseases group (PAVING) Centre of Research Excellence, is launching in Australia with $3 million AUD in funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). The center will focus on understanding the mechanisms behind post-viral diseases like Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), with the ultimate goal of developing new therapeutics.
The Scope of the Problem
Post-viral illnesses are a meaningful public health concern in Australia. Approximately one in ten Australians who contracted COVID-19 now experience Long COVID. Furthermore, an estimated 250,000 Australians are currently living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). These conditions can cause a wide range of debilitating symptoms, impacting daily life and placing a strain on healthcare resources.
| Condition | Estimated Prevalence in Australia |
|---|---|
| long COVID | Approximately 10% of those infected with COVID-19 |
| Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) | Approximately 250,000 people |
Research Approach and Leadership
Distinguished Professor Stephanie Gras, Deputy Director of the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS), will lead the Paving Centre. Her team will collaborate with researchers from universities across Australia. A key strategy is to leverage the wealth of data collected by individuals experiencing Long COVID – including infection dates, symptom timelines, vaccination history, and previous treatments – to gain insights into the underlying mechanisms of post-viral illnesses. Researchers hope to use Long COVID as a starting point to understand the broader spectrum of post-viral conditions.
Patient involvement
Recognizing the importance of lived experience, the research team includes individuals affected by Long COVID, Multiple sclerosis, and ME/CFS. This patient involvement aims to enhance understanding of the similarities and differences between these conditions, ensuring the research is relevant and responsive to the needs of those impacted.
Funding and Future Directions
The $3 million AUD in funding from the NHMRC will support the initial phase of research at the Paving centre. Future research directions are likely to include identifying biomarkers for post-viral illnesses, developing targeted therapies, and improving diagnostic tools.The centre’s work could also inform public health strategies for preventing and managing post-viral conditions.