Long Covid: Support & Research in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Schwerin, Germany – A fourth expert day dedicated to Long Covid, Post Covid, Post-Vac and ME/CFS took place Wednesday in Schwerin, bringing together researchers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocates to address the ongoing challenges of post-infectious illnesses. The event, held at Schwerin Castle and livestreamed on YouTube, comes as an estimated 40,000 people in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are believed to be affected by Post-Covid conditions, according to the patient initiative “NichtGenesen.”
The initiative, which bases its figures on estimates from the World Health Organization, aims to improve care and understanding of these complex conditions. While Rostock and Greifswald researchers have not independently confirmed the 40,000 figure, they also lack specific alternative data. Approximately half of those affected meet the criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
Who does the “NichtGenesen” initiative represent?
The “NichtGenesen” initiative advocates for individuals across Germany suffering from the long-term effects of Covid-19 or other infections. Founder Ricarda Piepenhagen states that her organization represents 30,000 patients nationwide.
More Than 200 Different Symptoms
Currently, there is no standardized therapeutic approach for Long or Post-Covid, largely due to the diverse nature of the illnesses. The wide range of symptoms and disease progression makes a definitive diagnosis demanding, as clear biomarkers are lacking. No specific medications have yet been approved for these conditions.
Treatment is therefore based on managing individual symptoms, which can be numerous and varied. These include persistent fatigue, headaches, cough, speech and concentration difficulties, hair loss, dizziness, and problems with smell and taste. Long-term damage can also affect the heart and blood vessels.
The Comprehensive Long Covid Center (CLOCC) at the Universitätsmedizin Greifswald provides treatment for these conditions, offering both in-person and telemedicine consultations. The CLOCC, funded by the Federal Ministry of Health, has treated 600 patients since October 2024. The center’s approach focuses on providing access to interdisciplinary care, referring patients to specialized medical departments based on their specific symptoms.
Fachtag in Schwerin Castle
To further research and connect stakeholders, “NichtGenesen” organized the expert day, focusing on care structures in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Representatives from the medical chamber, health insurance funds, and the university hospitals of Rostock and Greifswald attended, along with a presentation by Professor Carmen Scheibenbogen from the Charité Berlin.
State Government at the Fachtag
“The goal is to enable a large round table at the state level,” said Piepenhagen. She emphasized the need to raise awareness for patients facing severe hardship due to long-term illness. The initiative hopes to foster collaboration and improve support for those affected by Long Covid and related conditions.