Covid-19 will make you stupid

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.

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.

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.