What's New In Science - Defining Long COVID
What's New in Science (WNIS): The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) released a new, updated definition of Long COVID
Keeping up with new research is tough, even for scientists. That’s why I created What’s New in Science (WNIS), a series where I break down some of the most interesting new studies and share my perspective on why they matter.
Here, you'll find research summaries on everything from genetic discoveries to emerging treatments for chronic illnesses like EDS, POTS, MCAS, chronic pain, ME/CFS, and Long COVID. I also cover new scientific tools, clinical breakthroughs, and new medications that may be of interest.
Each post includes a quick, readable summary with links to the full article so you can dive deeper if you’d like to.
August 14, 2025 - Sharing the following new article: The 2024 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Long COVID Definition: What Clinicians Need to Know
Millions of Americans with Long COVID struggle to get a diagnosis and access care. To help address this, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) released a new, updated definition of Long COVID in June 2024, commissioned by US federal agencies.
The committee defines Long COVID as an infection-associated chronic condition that occurs after SARS-CoV-2 infection and lasts at least three months. It can present as continuous, relapsing, remitting, or progressive symptoms affecting one or more organ systems, ranging from fatigue and brain fog to autonomic issues like POTS.
Key points include:
Long COVID can affect anyone regardless of age, health, or background, and no single symptom is required for diagnosis.
Symptoms may emerge or worsen months after initial infection, even if the infection was mild or asymptomatic. A positive COVID test is not required to diagnose Long COVID
There are currently no definitive biomarkers or tests for Long COVID and diagnosis relies on clinical history and examination.
Long COVID often coexists with other diagnosable conditions such as ME/CFS, POTS, autoimmune disorders, and addressing these can improve patient quality of life.
Long COVID can cause significant functional impairment, with 25% of patients reporting major limitations in daily activities.
This definition is now being adopted by federal agencies like the CDC and will be revisited as new research emerges. Early diagnosis is critical to provide validation, support, and targeted management for those living with Long COVID.
The article is open access and can be viewed in its entirety through the link below!
I’d love to hear your thoughts on it - leave a comment below.
References:
Chu L, Bishof K, Dumes AA, Wesley Ely E, Joseph PV, Troxel AB; National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, Medicine (NASEM) Committee on Examining the Working Definition for Long COVID. The 2024 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Long COVID Definition: What Clinicians Need to Know. J Gen Intern Med. 2025 Jul;40(9):2024-2027. doi: 10.1007/s11606-025-09415-8. Epub 2025 Mar 10. PMID: 40063321; PMCID: PMC12325811.
Link to article: https://rdcu.be/ez8s9
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