🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 121 (from laksa176)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa121.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html","crawl_time":1775724485,"first_indexed_time":1771995612,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,medicalxpress!\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html s443","src_root_hash":"13015002168574137721","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences","meta_descriptions":["Even a mild case of COVID-19 or the flu can impact the body long after the fever and cough fade, according to new Tulane University research that may help explain why some people struggle to feel fully recovered weeks or months later. Tulane researchers found that while both viruses can leave lasting lung damage, only SARS-CoV-2 infection caused persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus was no longer detectable."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Credit: Unsplash\/CC0 Public Domain\nEven a mild case of COVID-19 or the flu can impact the body long after the fever and cough fade, according to new Tulane University research that may help explain why some people struggle to feel fully recovered weeks or months later. Tulane researchers found that while both viruses can leave lasting lung damage, only SARS-CoV-2 infection caused persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus was no longer detectable.\nThe findings, published in\nFrontiers in Immunology\n, help explain why\nlong COVID\noften includes neurological symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue and mood changes, while influenza is more commonly associated with respiratory complications.\n\"Influenza and COVID-19 affect large populations worldwide and carry a significant public health toll, yet the mechanisms behind their long-term effects remain poorly understood,\" said Dr. Xuebin Qin, lead author and professor of microbiology and immunology at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center.\nComparing long-term impacts in mice\nTo separate effects common to severe respiratory infections from those unique to COVID-19, researchers used a mouse model to examine lung and brain tissue after infection had cleared.\nIn the lungs, both viruses left behind a similar picture: immune cells that failed to fully stand down and increased\nbuildup of collagen\n, a protein associated with scarring. Those changes can stiffen lung tissue and make breathing feel more labored—a possible biological explanation for why some people report lingering shortness of breath after respiratory infections.\nBut when the researchers looked more closely, they found a key difference. After the flu, the lungs appeared to switch into\nrepair mode\n, sending specialized cells into damaged areas to help rebuild the lining of the airways. That repair response was largely missing after COVID-19 infection, suggesting the virus may interfere with the lung's natural healing process.\nCOVID's unique footprint in the brain\nThe most striking differences appeared in the brain.\nAlthough neither virus was found in brain tissue, mice that had COVID-19 showed signs of persistent brain inflammation weeks later, along with tiny areas of bleeding.\nGene expression analysis\nrevealed ongoing inflammatory signaling and disruption of pathways involved in serotonin and dopamine regulation, systems closely tied to mood, cognition and energy levels. These persistent changes were largely absent in influenza-infected animals.\n\"In both infections, we observed lasting lung injury,\" Qin said. \"But long-term effects on the brain were unique to SARS-CoV-2. That distinction is critical to understanding long COVID.\"\nWhat the findings could mean for patients\nThe study findings shed new light on how vascular and immune changes may contribute to persistent neurological symptoms.\nBy defining these biological changes, the research offers a clearer foundation for monitoring patients and developing treatments aimed at preventing lasting damage. As lingering symptoms continue to complicate recovery for some, understanding what is driving them is essential to reducing long-term health consequences.\nPublication details\nCharacterization of Subchronic Lung and Brain Consequences Caused by Mouse-Adapted SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A Infection of C57BL6 mice,\nFrontiers in Immunology\n(2026).\nDOI: 10.3389\/fimmu.2026.1755141\nJournal information:\nFrontiers in Immunology\nCitation\n:\n                                                 Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences (2026, February 25)\n                                                 retrieved 9 April 2026\n                                                 from https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html\nThis document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no\n                                            part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.","attrs_markdown":"[![logotype](https:\/\/medx.b-cdn.net\/tmpl\/v6\/img\/logo.png)](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/)\n\nSpecialities\n\nWell-being\n\nConditions\n\n- [Week's top](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/weekly-news\/)\n- [Latest news](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/latest-news\/)\n- [Unread news](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/unread-news\/)\n- [Subscribe](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html)\n### Science X Account\n\n- [Allergy and immunology](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/immunology-news\/)\n- [Anesthesiology](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/anesthesiology-news\/)\n- [Cardiology](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/cardiology-news\/)\n- [Clinical genetics](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/genetics-news\/)\n- [Critical care medicine](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/critical-care-medicine-news\/)\n- [Dermatology](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/dermatology-news\/)\n- [Diagnostic 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Syndrome](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/mesh\/nervous-system-diseases\/brain-diseases\/basal-ganglia-diseases\/tourette-syndrome\/)\n- [Valley Fever](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/mesh\/infections\/bacterial-infections-mycoses\/mycoses\/coccidioidomycosis\/)\n- [Vertigo](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/mesh\/otorhinolaryngologic-diseases\/ear-diseases\/labyrinth-diseases\/vestibular-diseases\/vertigo\/)\n- [Vitiligo](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/mesh\/skin-connective-tissue-diseases\/skin-diseases\/pigmentation-disorders\/hypopigmentation\/vitiligo\/)\n- [Wounds, Gunshot](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/mesh\/wounds-injuries\/wounds-gunshot\/)\n- [Browse all »](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/concepts\/)\n\n- share this\\!\n- [Share]()\n- [Tweet](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html)\n- [Share](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html)\n- [Email](mailto:)\n\nFebruary 25, 2026\n***\n# Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences\nby [Tulane University](http:\/\/www.tulane.edu\/)\n\nedited by [Sadie Harley](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/editorial-team\/), reviewed by [Robert Egan](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/editorial-team\/)\n\n[Editors' notes]()\n\nThis article has been reviewed according to Science X's [editorial process](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/editorial-process\/) and [policies](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/editorial-standards\/). [Editors](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/editorial-team\/) have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:\n\nfact-checked\n\npeer-reviewed publication\n\ntrusted source\n\nproofread\n\n[The GIST]()\n\n[Add as preferred source](https:\/\/google.com\/preferences\/source?q=https%3A%2F%2Fmedicalxpress.com%2F)\n***\n\n![flu](https:\/\/scx1.b-cdn.net\/csz\/news\/800a\/2026\/flu.jpg)\n\nCredit: Unsplash\/CC0 Public Domain\n\nEven a mild case of COVID-19 or the flu can impact the body long after the fever and cough fade, according to new Tulane University research that may help explain why some people struggle to feel fully recovered weeks or months later. Tulane researchers found that while both viruses can leave lasting lung damage, only SARS-CoV-2 infection caused persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus was no longer detectable.\n\nThe findings, published in [*Frontiers in Immunology*](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/journals\/immunology\/articles\/10.3389\/fimmu.2026.1755141), help explain why [long COVID](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2023-03-covid-linked-brain-oxygen-cognitive.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal) often includes neurological symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue and mood changes, while influenza is more commonly associated with respiratory complications.\n\n\"Influenza and COVID-19 affect large populations worldwide and carry a significant public health toll, yet the mechanisms behind their long-term effects remain poorly understood,\" said Dr. Xuebin Qin, lead author and professor of microbiology and immunology at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center.\n\n## Comparing long-term impacts in mice\nTo separate effects common to severe respiratory infections from those unique to COVID-19, researchers used a mouse model to examine lung and brain tissue after infection had cleared.\n\nIn the lungs, both viruses left behind a similar picture: immune cells that failed to fully stand down and increased [buildup of collagen](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2024-07-lung-complications-worsen-years-hospitalization.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal), a protein associated with scarring. Those changes can stiffen lung tissue and make breathing feel more labored—a possible biological explanation for why some people report lingering shortness of breath after respiratory infections.\n\nBut when the researchers looked more closely, they found a key difference. After the flu, the lungs appeared to switch into [repair mode](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2022-03-covid.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal), sending specialized cells into damaged areas to help rebuild the lining of the airways. That repair response was largely missing after COVID-19 infection, suggesting the virus may interfere with the lung's natural healing process.\n\n## COVID's unique footprint in the brain\nThe most striking differences appeared in the brain.\n\nAlthough neither virus was found in brain tissue, mice that had COVID-19 showed signs of persistent brain inflammation weeks later, along with tiny areas of bleeding.\n\n[Gene expression analysis](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2023-08-severe-covid-long-term-innate-immune.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal) revealed ongoing inflammatory signaling and disruption of pathways involved in serotonin and dopamine regulation, systems closely tied to mood, cognition and energy levels. These persistent changes were largely absent in influenza-infected animals.\n\n\"In both infections, we observed lasting lung injury,\" Qin said. \"But long-term effects on the brain were unique to SARS-CoV-2. That distinction is critical to understanding long COVID.\"\n\n## What the findings could mean for patients\nThe study findings shed new light on how vascular and immune changes may contribute to persistent neurological symptoms.\n\nBy defining these biological changes, the research offers a clearer foundation for monitoring patients and developing treatments aimed at preventing lasting damage. As lingering symptoms continue to complicate recovery for some, understanding what is driving them is essential to reducing long-term health consequences.\n\n###### Publication details\nCharacterization of Subchronic Lung and Brain Consequences Caused by Mouse-Adapted SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A Infection of C57BL6 mice, *Frontiers in Immunology* (2026). [DOI: 10.3389\/fimmu.2026.1755141](https:\/\/dx.doi.org\/10.3389\/fimmu.2026.1755141)\n\n**Journal information:** [Frontiers in Immunology](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/journals\/frontiers-in-immunology\/)\n\n###### Key medical concepts\n[**COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019)**](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/concepts\/disease-syndrome\/covid-19-coronavirus-disease-2019\/)[**Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome**](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/concepts\/disease-syndrome\/post-acute-covid-19-syndrome\/)\n\n###### Clinical categories\n[**Infectious diseases**](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/infectious-diseases-news\/)[**Common illnesses & Prevention**](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/common-illnesses-prevention-news\/)[**Neurology**](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/neurology-news\/)[**Pulmonary medicine**](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/pulmonary-medicine-news\/)\n\nProvided by [Tulane University](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/partners\/tulane-university\/)\n\n**Citation**: Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences (2026, February 25) retrieved 9 April 2026 from https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html\n\nThis document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. 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These brain changes, absent in flu, are linked to ongoing neurological symptoms such as brain fog and mood disturbances, highlighting a unique long-term impact of COVID-19 compared to influenza.\n\nThis summary was automatically generated using LLM. [Full disclaimer](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/ai-disclaimer\/)\n##### Let us know if there is a problem with our content\n###### E-mail the story\n##### Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences\n\n#### Donate and enjoy an ad-free experience\nWe keep our content available to everyone. Consider supporting Science X's mission by getting a premium account.\n\n[Remove ads](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/donate\/?utm_source=medx&utm_medium=desktop&utm_campaign=popup)\n\n[Maybe later](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html)\n\n[![Phys.org](https:\/\/medx.b-cdn.net\/tmpl\/v6\/img\/Physorg.svg) Phys.org Daily science news on research developments and the latest scientific innovations](https:\/\/phys.org\/)\n\n[![Tech Xplore](https:\/\/medx.b-cdn.net\/tmpl\/v6\/img\/TechXplore.png) Tech Xplore The latest engineering, electronics and technology advances](https:\/\/techxplore.com\/)\n\n[![ScienceX](https:\/\/medx.b-cdn.net\/tmpl\/v6\/img\/ScienceX.svg) Science X The most comprehensive sci-tech news coverage on the web](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/)\n\n## Newsletters\n## Follow us\n\n- [Top](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html)\n- [Home](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/)\n- [Search](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/search\/)\n- [Mobile version](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html?deviceType=mobile)\n\n- [Help](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/)\n- [FAQ](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/contactus\/)\n- [About](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/about-us\/)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/feedback\/)\n\n- [Support us](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/donate\/)\n- [Science X Account](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/profile\/)\n- [Newsletter](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/newsletter\/)\n- [Archive](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/archive\/)\n\n- [Android app](https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.PhysOrg.healthFree)\n- [iOS app](https:\/\/itunes.apple.com\/us\/app\/medical-xpress\/id412403837?mt=8)\n- [RSS feeds](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/feeds\/)\n- [Push notification]()\n\n© Medical Xpress 2011 - 2026 powered by [Science X Network](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/)\n\n[Privacy policy](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/privacy\/) [Terms of use](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/terms\/) [Medical Disclaimer](https:\/\/sciencex.com\/help\/disclaimer\/)\n\n#### E-mail newsletter\n#### Follow us\n\n![Quantcast](https:\/\/pixel.quantserve.com\/pixel?a.1=p-522H9WlBHUNiI.gif&?a.2=p-5dNhPAnM9r0yY)","attrs_readable_markdown":"![flu](https:\/\/scx1.b-cdn.net\/csz\/news\/800a\/2026\/flu.jpg)\n\nCredit: Unsplash\/CC0 Public Domain\n\nEven a mild case of COVID-19 or the flu can impact the body long after the fever and cough fade, according to new Tulane University research that may help explain why some people struggle to feel fully recovered weeks or months later. Tulane researchers found that while both viruses can leave lasting lung damage, only SARS-CoV-2 infection caused persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus was no longer detectable.\n\nThe findings, published in [*Frontiers in Immunology*](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/journals\/immunology\/articles\/10.3389\/fimmu.2026.1755141), help explain why [long COVID](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2023-03-covid-linked-brain-oxygen-cognitive.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal) often includes neurological symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue and mood changes, while influenza is more commonly associated with respiratory complications.\n\n\"Influenza and COVID-19 affect large populations worldwide and carry a significant public health toll, yet the mechanisms behind their long-term effects remain poorly understood,\" said Dr. Xuebin Qin, lead author and professor of microbiology and immunology at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center.\n\n## Comparing long-term impacts in mice\nTo separate effects common to severe respiratory infections from those unique to COVID-19, researchers used a mouse model to examine lung and brain tissue after infection had cleared.\n\nIn the lungs, both viruses left behind a similar picture: immune cells that failed to fully stand down and increased [buildup of collagen](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2024-07-lung-complications-worsen-years-hospitalization.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal), a protein associated with scarring. Those changes can stiffen lung tissue and make breathing feel more labored—a possible biological explanation for why some people report lingering shortness of breath after respiratory infections.\n\nBut when the researchers looked more closely, they found a key difference. After the flu, the lungs appeared to switch into [repair mode](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2022-03-covid.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal), sending specialized cells into damaged areas to help rebuild the lining of the airways. That repair response was largely missing after COVID-19 infection, suggesting the virus may interfere with the lung's natural healing process.\n\n## COVID's unique footprint in the brain\nThe most striking differences appeared in the brain.\n\nAlthough neither virus was found in brain tissue, mice that had COVID-19 showed signs of persistent brain inflammation weeks later, along with tiny areas of bleeding.\n\n[Gene expression analysis](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2023-08-severe-covid-long-term-innate-immune.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal) revealed ongoing inflammatory signaling and disruption of pathways involved in serotonin and dopamine regulation, systems closely tied to mood, cognition and energy levels. These persistent changes were largely absent in influenza-infected animals.\n\n\"In both infections, we observed lasting lung injury,\" Qin said. \"But long-term effects on the brain were unique to SARS-CoV-2. That distinction is critical to understanding long COVID.\"\n\n## What the findings could mean for patients\nThe study findings shed new light on how vascular and immune changes may contribute to persistent neurological symptoms.\n\nBy defining these biological changes, the research offers a clearer foundation for monitoring patients and developing treatments aimed at preventing lasting damage. As lingering symptoms continue to complicate recovery for some, understanding what is driving them is essential to reducing long-term health consequences.\n\n###### Publication details\nCharacterization of Subchronic Lung and Brain Consequences Caused by Mouse-Adapted SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A Infection of C57BL6 mice, *Frontiers in Immunology* (2026). [DOI: 10.3389\/fimmu.2026.1755141](https:\/\/dx.doi.org\/10.3389\/fimmu.2026.1755141)\n\n**Journal information:** [Frontiers in Immunology](https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/journals\/frontiers-in-immunology\/)\n\n**Citation**: Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences (2026, February 25) retrieved 9 April 2026 from https:\/\/medicalxpress.com\/news\/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html\n\nThis document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences
Meta Description	Even a mild case of COVID-19 or the flu can impact the body long after the fever and cough fade, according to new Tulane University research that may help explain why some people struggle to feel fully recovered weeks or months later. Tulane researchers found that while both viruses can leave lasting lung damage, only SARS-CoV-2 infection caused persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus was no longer detectable.
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Boilerpipe Text	Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Even a mild case of COVID-19 or the flu can impact the body long after the fever and cough fade, according to new Tulane University research that may help explain why some people struggle to feel fully recovered weeks or months later. Tulane researchers found that while both viruses can leave lasting lung damage, only SARS-CoV-2 infection caused persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus was no longer detectable. The findings, published in Frontiers in Immunology , help explain why long COVID often includes neurological symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue and mood changes, while influenza is more commonly associated with respiratory complications. "Influenza and COVID-19 affect large populations worldwide and carry a significant public health toll, yet the mechanisms behind their long-term effects remain poorly understood," said Dr. Xuebin Qin, lead author and professor of microbiology and immunology at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center. Comparing long-term impacts in mice To separate effects common to severe respiratory infections from those unique to COVID-19, researchers used a mouse model to examine lung and brain tissue after infection had cleared. In the lungs, both viruses left behind a similar picture: immune cells that failed to fully stand down and increased buildup of collagen , a protein associated with scarring. Those changes can stiffen lung tissue and make breathing feel more labored—a possible biological explanation for why some people report lingering shortness of breath after respiratory infections. But when the researchers looked more closely, they found a key difference. After the flu, the lungs appeared to switch into repair mode , sending specialized cells into damaged areas to help rebuild the lining of the airways. That repair response was largely missing after COVID-19 infection, suggesting the virus may interfere with the lung's natural healing process. COVID's unique footprint in the brain The most striking differences appeared in the brain. Although neither virus was found in brain tissue, mice that had COVID-19 showed signs of persistent brain inflammation weeks later, along with tiny areas of bleeding. Gene expression analysis revealed ongoing inflammatory signaling and disruption of pathways involved in serotonin and dopamine regulation, systems closely tied to mood, cognition and energy levels. These persistent changes were largely absent in influenza-infected animals. "In both infections, we observed lasting lung injury," Qin said. "But long-term effects on the brain were unique to SARS-CoV-2. That distinction is critical to understanding long COVID." What the findings could mean for patients The study findings shed new light on how vascular and immune changes may contribute to persistent neurological symptoms. By defining these biological changes, the research offers a clearer foundation for monitoring patients and developing treatments aimed at preventing lasting damage. As lingering symptoms continue to complicate recovery for some, understanding what is driving them is essential to reducing long-term health consequences. Publication details Characterization of Subchronic Lung and Brain Consequences Caused by Mouse-Adapted SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A Infection of C57BL6 mice, Frontiers in Immunology (2026). DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2026.1755141 Journal information: Frontiers in Immunology Citation : Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences (2026, February 25) retrieved 9 April 2026 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.
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[Editors](https://sciencex.com/help/editorial-team/) have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked peer-reviewed publication trusted source proofread [The GIST]() [Add as preferred source](https://google.com/preferences/source?q=https%3A%2F%2Fmedicalxpress.com%2F) * ![flu](https://scx1.b-cdn.net/csz/news/800a/2026/flu.jpg) Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Even a mild case of COVID-19 or the flu can impact the body long after the fever and cough fade, according to new Tulane University research that may help explain why some people struggle to feel fully recovered weeks or months later. Tulane researchers found that while both viruses can leave lasting lung damage, only SARS-CoV-2 infection caused persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus was no longer detectable. The findings, published in [Frontiers in Immunology](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2026.1755141), help explain why [long COVID](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-03-covid-linked-brain-oxygen-cognitive.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal) often includes neurological symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue and mood changes, while influenza is more commonly associated with respiratory complications. "Influenza and COVID-19 affect large populations worldwide and carry a significant public health toll, yet the mechanisms behind their long-term effects remain poorly understood," said Dr. Xuebin Qin, lead author and professor of microbiology and immunology at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center. ## Comparing long-term impacts in mice To separate effects common to severe respiratory infections from those unique to COVID-19, researchers used a mouse model to examine lung and brain tissue after infection had cleared. In the lungs, both viruses left behind a similar picture: immune cells that failed to fully stand down and increased [buildup of collagen](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-07-lung-complications-worsen-years-hospitalization.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal), a protein associated with scarring. Those changes can stiffen lung tissue and make breathing feel more labored—a possible biological explanation for why some people report lingering shortness of breath after respiratory infections. But when the researchers looked more closely, they found a key difference. After the flu, the lungs appeared to switch into [repair mode](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-03-covid.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal), sending specialized cells into damaged areas to help rebuild the lining of the airways. That repair response was largely missing after COVID-19 infection, suggesting the virus may interfere with the lung's natural healing process. ## COVID's unique footprint in the brain The most striking differences appeared in the brain. Although neither virus was found in brain tissue, mice that had COVID-19 showed signs of persistent brain inflammation weeks later, along with tiny areas of bleeding. [Gene expression analysis](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-08-severe-covid-long-term-innate-immune.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal) revealed ongoing inflammatory signaling and disruption of pathways involved in serotonin and dopamine regulation, systems closely tied to mood, cognition and energy levels. These persistent changes were largely absent in influenza-infected animals. "In both infections, we observed lasting lung injury," Qin said. "But long-term effects on the brain were unique to SARS-CoV-2. That distinction is critical to understanding long COVID." ## What the findings could mean for patients The study findings shed new light on how vascular and immune changes may contribute to persistent neurological symptoms. By defining these biological changes, the research offers a clearer foundation for monitoring patients and developing treatments aimed at preventing lasting damage. As lingering symptoms continue to complicate recovery for some, understanding what is driving them is essential to reducing long-term health consequences. ###### Publication details Characterization of Subchronic Lung and Brain Consequences Caused by Mouse-Adapted SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A Infection of C57BL6 mice, Frontiers in Immunology (2026). [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2026.1755141](https://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2026.1755141) Journal information: [Frontiers in Immunology](https://medicalxpress.com/journals/frontiers-in-immunology/) ###### Key medical concepts [COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019)](https://medicalxpress.com/concepts/disease-syndrome/covid-19-coronavirus-disease-2019/)[Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome](https://medicalxpress.com/concepts/disease-syndrome/post-acute-covid-19-syndrome/) ###### Clinical categories [Infectious diseases](https://medicalxpress.com/infectious-diseases-news/)[Common illnesses & Prevention](https://medicalxpress.com/common-illnesses-prevention-news/)[Neurology](https://medicalxpress.com/neurology-news/)[Pulmonary medicine](https://medicalxpress.com/pulmonary-medicine-news/) Provided by [Tulane University](https://medicalxpress.com/partners/tulane-university/) Citation: Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences (2026, February 25) retrieved 9 April 2026 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. 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These brain changes, absent in flu, are linked to ongoing neurological symptoms such as brain fog and mood disturbances, highlighting a unique long-term impact of COVID-19 compared to influenza. This summary was automatically generated using LLM. [Full disclaimer](https://sciencex.com/help/ai-disclaimer/) ##### Let us know if there is a problem with our content ###### E-mail the story ##### Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences #### Donate and enjoy an ad-free experience We keep our content available to everyone. Consider supporting Science X's mission by getting a premium account. [Remove ads](https://sciencex.com/donate/?utm_source=medx&utm_medium=desktop&utm_campaign=popup) [Maybe later](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html) [![Phys.org](https://medx.b-cdn.net/tmpl/v6/img/Physorg.svg) Phys.org Daily science news on research developments and the latest scientific innovations](https://phys.org/) [![Tech Xplore](https://medx.b-cdn.net/tmpl/v6/img/TechXplore.png) Tech Xplore The latest engineering, electronics and technology advances](https://techxplore.com/) [![ScienceX](https://medx.b-cdn.net/tmpl/v6/img/ScienceX.svg) Science X The most comprehensive sci-tech news coverage on the web](https://sciencex.com/) ## Newsletters ## Follow us - [Top](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html) - [Home](https://medicalxpress.com/) - [Search](https://medicalxpress.com/search/) - [Mobile version](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html?deviceType=mobile) - [Help](https://sciencex.com/help/) - [FAQ](https://sciencex.com/help/contactus/) - [About](https://sciencex.com/help/about-us/) - [Contact](https://sciencex.com/help/feedback/) - [Support us](https://sciencex.com/help/donate/) - [Science X Account](https://sciencex.com/profile/) - [Newsletter](https://sciencex.com/help/newsletter/) - [Archive](https://medicalxpress.com/archive/) - [Android app](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.PhysOrg.healthFree) - [iOS app](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/medical-xpress/id412403837?mt=8) - [RSS feeds](https://medicalxpress.com/feeds/) - [Push notification]() © Medical Xpress 2011 - 2026 powered by [Science X Network](https://sciencex.com/) [Privacy policy](https://sciencex.com/help/privacy/) [Terms of use](https://sciencex.com/help/terms/) [Medical Disclaimer](https://sciencex.com/help/disclaimer/) #### E-mail newsletter #### Follow us ![Quantcast](https://pixel.quantserve.com/pixel?a.1=p-522H9WlBHUNiI.gif&?a.2=p-5dNhPAnM9r0yY)
Readable Markdown	![flu](https://scx1.b-cdn.net/csz/news/800a/2026/flu.jpg) Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Even a mild case of COVID-19 or the flu can impact the body long after the fever and cough fade, according to new Tulane University research that may help explain why some people struggle to feel fully recovered weeks or months later. Tulane researchers found that while both viruses can leave lasting lung damage, only SARS-CoV-2 infection caused persistent brain inflammation and small blood vessel injury, even after the virus was no longer detectable. The findings, published in [Frontiers in Immunology](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2026.1755141), help explain why [long COVID](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-03-covid-linked-brain-oxygen-cognitive.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal) often includes neurological symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue and mood changes, while influenza is more commonly associated with respiratory complications. "Influenza and COVID-19 affect large populations worldwide and carry a significant public health toll, yet the mechanisms behind their long-term effects remain poorly understood," said Dr. Xuebin Qin, lead author and professor of microbiology and immunology at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center. ## Comparing long-term impacts in mice To separate effects common to severe respiratory infections from those unique to COVID-19, researchers used a mouse model to examine lung and brain tissue after infection had cleared. In the lungs, both viruses left behind a similar picture: immune cells that failed to fully stand down and increased [buildup of collagen](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-07-lung-complications-worsen-years-hospitalization.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal), a protein associated with scarring. Those changes can stiffen lung tissue and make breathing feel more labored—a possible biological explanation for why some people report lingering shortness of breath after respiratory infections. But when the researchers looked more closely, they found a key difference. After the flu, the lungs appeared to switch into [repair mode](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-03-covid.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal), sending specialized cells into damaged areas to help rebuild the lining of the airways. That repair response was largely missing after COVID-19 infection, suggesting the virus may interfere with the lung's natural healing process. ## COVID's unique footprint in the brain The most striking differences appeared in the brain. Although neither virus was found in brain tissue, mice that had COVID-19 showed signs of persistent brain inflammation weeks later, along with tiny areas of bleeding. [Gene expression analysis](https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-08-severe-covid-long-term-innate-immune.html?utm_source=embeddings&utm_medium=related&utm_campaign=internal) revealed ongoing inflammatory signaling and disruption of pathways involved in serotonin and dopamine regulation, systems closely tied to mood, cognition and energy levels. These persistent changes were largely absent in influenza-infected animals. "In both infections, we observed lasting lung injury," Qin said. "But long-term effects on the brain were unique to SARS-CoV-2. That distinction is critical to understanding long COVID." ## What the findings could mean for patients The study findings shed new light on how vascular and immune changes may contribute to persistent neurological symptoms. By defining these biological changes, the research offers a clearer foundation for monitoring patients and developing treatments aimed at preventing lasting damage. As lingering symptoms continue to complicate recovery for some, understanding what is driving them is essential to reducing long-term health consequences. ###### Publication details Characterization of Subchronic Lung and Brain Consequences Caused by Mouse-Adapted SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A Infection of C57BL6 mice, Frontiers in Immunology (2026). [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2026.1755141](https://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2026.1755141) Journal information: [Frontiers in Immunology](https://medicalxpress.com/journals/frontiers-in-immunology/) Citation: Long-term brain effects of COVID-19 vs. flu: Study reveals key differences (2026, February 25) retrieved 9 April 2026 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-term-brain-effects-covid-flu.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.
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