Mount Sinai Releases Groundbreaking Manual for Infection-Associated Chronic illnesses
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New York, NY – August 18, 2025 – Mount Sinai hospital has unveiled a extensive, first-of-its-kind manual designed to equip physicians wiht the tools needed to diagnose and effectively treat chronic diseases stemming from infections. This actionable resource addresses a growing global health challenge,aiming to improve care for patients suffering from conditions like long COVID,Lyme disease,and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS).
Addressing a Global Health Crisis
The manual, developed by the Cohen Centre for the Recovery from Complex Chronic Diseases, provides guidance on navigating the diagnostic process and delivering enhanced patient care. According to estimates, approximately 400 million individuals worldwide are living with the effects of long COVID, with millions more impacted by ME/CFS, tick-borne illnesses, and other infection-related chronic conditions. The number of affected patients continues to rise daily, underscoring the urgent need for standardized, evidence-based treatment protocols.
“Launching this manual is a way to continue to build and help our doctors, and to provide quality, evidence-based care to patients around the world with these diseases,” stated David Putrino, director of the Cohen Center.
A Comprehensive Guide for Clinicians
The manual offers a staged approach, guiding specialists from initial diagnosis – particularly in cases lacking definitive biomarkers – through long-term management strategies and multidisciplinary care models. It also emphasizes effective interaction techniques to foster stronger patient-physician relationships.
Beyond diagnostic and treatment protocols, the manual delves into the frequent manifestations of these illnesses, including “brain fog,” mast cell activation, and post-exertional malaise. It further explains the underlying biophysical processes contributing to these symptoms, providing clinicians with a deeper understanding of the patient experience.
Did You Know? Post-exertional malaise, a hallmark symptom of ME/CFS and long COVID, is characterized by a disproportionate worsening of symptoms following even minor physical or mental exertion.
Infection Control and Supportive therapies
Recognizing the importance of preventing further infections, the manual details infrastructure strategies employed by the Cohen Center, such as the use of HEPA filters and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UV-C) technology, to minimize the risk of SARS-CoV-2 and other viral transmission within healthcare settings.
Moreover, the manual provides physiotherapy recommendations for related conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, dysautonomia-a disorder affecting autonomic nervous system function-and cranio-cervical instability. It also cautions against prescribing cardiovascular exercises to patients experiencing post-exertional fatigue, a potentially harmful practice.
Key Data & Recommendations
| Condition | Estimated Global Prevalence | Key Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| long COVID | 400 Million+ | Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care focusing on symptom management. |
| ME/CFS | millions | Pacing strategies to avoid post-exertional malaise; individualized treatment plans. |
| lyme Disease/Lyme+ | Millions | Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy; long-term monitoring. |
“The chronic diseases associated with infections continue to be invalidating, costly, and largely misunderstood in medical practice,” explained Raven Baxter, director of scientific communication at the Cohen Center. “Our research demonstrates that even a single, well-designed educational intervention can significantly improve clinician confidence, training, and empathy in managing these conditions.”
Pro Tip: Effective communication and a patient-centered approach are crucial when managing chronic illnesses. Actively listening to patient concerns and validating their experiences can significantly improve outcomes.
the manual, reviewed by over ten experts from the United States and internationally, is freely available here.
What are the biggest challenges you face in diagnosing and treating patients with long-term post-infection syndromes? How can resources like this manual best support yoru clinical practice?
The increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses linked to infections represents a significant shift in the global healthcare landscape. factors contributing to this trend include emerging infectious diseases,improved diagnostic capabilities,and a growing awareness of the long-term consequences of acute infections. Future research will likely focus on identifying biomarkers for these conditions, developing targeted therapies, and improving preventative measures.The Cohen Center’s initiative underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to address this complex and evolving health challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions about Infection-Associated Chronic Illnesses
- What is long COVID? Long COVID refers to a range of persistent symptoms that can develop after an initial COVID-19 infection.
- What causes ME/CFS? The exact cause of ME/CFS is unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by a viral infection in some cases.
- How is Lyme disease diagnosed? Lyme disease is typically diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and blood tests.
- What are the main symptoms of post-exertional malaise? Symptoms include fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and flu-like symptoms that worsen after physical or mental exertion.
- Where can I find more facts about the Mount Sinai manual? the manual is freely available on the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai website.
We hope this article provides valuable insight into this critical area of healthcare. Please share this information with your colleagues and networks, and feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts and questions. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on health and medical breakthroughs!
