As the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic continues, a link between COVID, mould and latent viruses has emerged.

A common thread between all three is immunosuppression which comes about through their presence.

Thankfully, steps can be taken to reduce harm, including supporting immune function and limiting exposure to water-damaged buildings.

What are they?

Mould is a fungus that produces toxic mycotoxins, which are harmful to human health, particularly in those with genetic vulnerabilities.

COVID-19 is the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Latent viruses remain dormant in the body after infection and can reactivate years later, causing symptoms.

Why now?

The COVID-19 pandemic led to global lockdowns, keeping people confined to their homes for long periods.

With an estimated 50% of homes in Australia and the United States being affected by dampness of mould, inhabitants became exposed to mycotoxins on a more ongoing basis.

Why does it matter?

Research has demonstrated that mould and COVID-19 can cause immunosuppression. This can thereby render the individual vulnerable to the reactivation of previously dormant viruses that usually remain dormant in non-immunocompromised hosts.

Common viruses observed to become reactivated include those from the Herpes family.

These include Epstein-Barr, cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex virus and Human herpesvirus6.

Not only can a compromised immune system contribute to the reactivation of dormant viruses, but it can actually make an individual more prone to contracting COVID-19 in the first instance.

What to do?

Now that we understand the link between the three, prioritising the exposure to mould while incorporating detoxification and addressing downstream effects is key.

Directly tackling latent viruses through a combination of targeted and general immune boosting strategies can untangle the web and bring one closer to homeostasis.

Recovery is possible!

You can find other ME/CFS related blogs here.