While the World Health Organisation has removed Covid-19's health emergency label, it is still a threat, with millions around the world now grappling with long-term health problems after recovering from the virus.
This condition – known as long Covid, post-Covid-19 syndrome or PASC – is also found in other viral diseases such as Zika and Ebola.
About 765 million cases of Covid-19 have been recorded worldwide, though this is believed to be a major undercount.
Long Covid has been observed in those with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection whose symptoms persist for at least two months, about three months after the onset of Covid-19.
Patients suffering from long Covid often display a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, headache, attention disorder, dyspnea and cognitive dysfunction, which can significantly affect daily functions.
Notably, the occurrence and duration of these symptoms can vary, with neurological and cognitive symptoms tending to appear later and persist longer than respiratory and other symptoms.
The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention uses the term “Post-Covid Conditions” to describe these symptoms.
The impact of long Covid
New symptoms may appear after the initial recovery, or symptoms from the acute infection may persist, fluctuate or relapse over time.
These ongoing health issues can have a major effect on a person's quality of life and can be associated with functional impairments.
Even seemingly unrelated conditions or diseases, such as autoimmune diseases or diabetes mellitus, can be triggered.
Healthcare professionals have also identified distinct clinical phenotypes related to various underlying disease mechanisms in patients suffering from long Covid.
For instance, a study presented at the 33rd European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases organised patients into three distinct phenotypes based on differing characteristics and symptoms.
Long Covid can affect diverse patient populations, including those with comorbidities, pregnant women, the elderly and children.
In February, the WHO released a new definition for paediatric long Covid, paving the way for better characterisation of the disease in paediatric age groups and improving awareness.
Long Covid's prevalence and research needs
Existing research suggests a majority of patients with post Covid-19 condition improve slowly over a two-year course.
Estimates suggest that 43 per cent to 80 per cent of people who catch the virus will experience long Covid.
But more research is needed to understand how people are affected and how symptoms change over time.
Silent Hill f
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Rating: 4.5/5
Racecard
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5 of the most-popular Airbnb locations in Dubai
Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:
• Dubai Marina
The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104
• Downtown
Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure. “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154
• City Walk
The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena. “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941
• Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152
Results
- Brock Lesnar retained the WWE Universal title against Roman Reigns
- Braun Strowman and Nicolas won the Raw Tag Team titles against Sheamus and Cesaro
- AJ Styles retained the WWE World Heavyweight title against Shinsuke Nakamura
- Nia Jax won the Raw Women’s title against Alexa Bliss
- Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon beat Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn
- The Undertaker beat John Cena
- The Bludgeon Brothers won the SmackDown Tag Team titles against the Usos and New Day
- Ronda Rousey and Kurt Angle beat Triple H and Stephanie McMahon
- Jinder Mahal won the United States title against Randy Orton, Rusev and Bobby Roode
- Charlotte retained the SmackDown Women’s title against Asuka
- Seth Rollins won the Intercontinental title against The Miz and Finn Balor
- Naomi won the first WrestleMania Women’s Battle Royal
- Cedric Alexander won the vacant Cruiserweight title against Mustafa Ali
- Matt Hardy won the Andre the Giant Battle Royal
Match info
Karnataka Tuskers 110-3
J Charles 35, M Pretorius 1-19, Z Khan 0-16
Deccan Gladiators 111-5 in 8.3 overs
K Pollard 45*, S Zadran 2-18
