Long COVID Affects 20 Million Americans, Global Cognition Risks Rise

Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic began, the lingering effects, particularly neurocognitive symptoms associated with long covid, are significant and troubling, affecting an estimated 20 million Americans. Studies indicate that cognitive deficits can persist even in those who quickly recover from the virus, with some experiencing memory loss and reduced decision-making abilities. Meanwhile, the education sector reflects on lessons learned from the pandemic, highlighting how rapid adaptations led to improvements in student assessments and graduation rates, although some stakeholders express disappointment over the fading momentum for innovation. Globally, there is a push for a new pandemic agreement aimed at improving preparedness and response to future health crises, with countries investing in surveillance and vaccine development initiatives. Despite initial optimism for transformative change post-pandemic, concerns remain about whether the necessary lessons will be effectively applied. The anniversary of the pandemic serves as a reminder of both the challenges faced and the opportunities for future resilience.