A network for the exploration of long-term effects of COVID-19, Long Covid, was launched on Monday. Another network of model projects for the supply of children and adolescents is set to follow. The goal of the networks is to develop and exchange research findings on the treatment of Long Covid, including ME/CFS, so that they can be quickly implemented in care. Conversely, data from care will be made available for research.
“With the coordination network, we are bringing research and care even closer together” said German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD). “Many people are still suffering from the long-term effects of a COVID-19 infection. And the number of those affected is still rising.”
Lauterbach defended the 120 million euro funding sum for the period until the end of 2028, which has been criticized by those affected as inadequate. “With 30 federally funded projects, Germany is investing as much in the research of Long Covid symptoms as few other countries are” he said. We are not leaving the people suffering from Long Covid alone.