Study Links Severe Post-COVID Syndrome in Children to Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation

Researchers identify the reactivation of the Epstein-Barr virus as a potential trigger for Pediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome (PIMS) following COVID-19 infections in children.

PIMS is a rare but serious inflammatory condition occurring weeks after a COVID-19 infection in children, causing symptoms like fever, heart issues, and rashes.
Scientists found that the reactivation of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), dormant in most people, may be responsible for triggering PIMS in affected children.
A study involving 145 children with PIMS revealed that two-thirds had EBV-infected immune cells, suggesting a strong link between the virus and the syndrome.
The study highlights that COVID-19 disrupts the immune system, allowing EBV to reactivate and overwhelm the body’s defenses, leading to severe inflammation.
Findings may inform treatments for other post-COVID conditions, such as Long COVID, with researchers exploring the potential of TGFβ inhibitors for therapy.