Understanding the distinction between live virus and viral fragments is essential, as only live viruses can be effectively targeted by antiviral treatments.

Research suggests that some individuals may harbor live virus rather than just inactive viral remnants, which is critical for the development of targeted treatments.

Long COVID can affect individuals across all age groups, but it has the most significant impact on those aged 30 to 49 years.

They emphasize the urgency of conducting trials on known antiviral treatments and the need for new drug development to effectively address the challenges posed by long COVID.

Recent research indicates that long COVID may be linked to the persistent presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the body, a concept referred to as 'viral persistence.'

Evidence of viral RNA has been found in various tissues and blood samples one to four months after acute infection, which correlates with an increased risk of developing long COVID.

Some studies have detected replicating viral RNA and proteins in patients' blood years after their initial infection, suggesting ongoing viral activity in hidden reservoirs within the body.

In light of these findings, there is a pressing call for expedited clinical trials of antiviral therapies to treat long COVID, including the potential repurposing of existing medications like metformin.

The authors of recent studies advocate for increased government support and further research to develop new drugs and clinical trial platforms specifically targeting long COVID.

Raising public awareness about long COVID, its associated risks, and prevention strategies is vital, especially since multiple infections can increase the risk of developing long COVID.

Preventive measures to reduce COVID-19 exposure are recommended, including improving indoor air quality, using high-quality masks, and staying current with vaccinations.

Despite accumulating evidence, definitive proof of the long-term presence of live virus remains elusive due to the technical challenges involved in isolating it from bodily reservoirs.