SYDNEY, June 12 (Xinhua) -- Australia has launched a major research initiative to investigate the long-term effects of COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.
This real-time, systematic study will reveal how frequently persistent symptoms like fatigue and cognitive impairment occur after viral infections, how long these symptoms persist, and their impact on daily activities and healthcare needs, said a release from the Kirby Institute at the University of New South Wales published on the Science Media Exchange (Scimex) online news portal on Thursday.
The OUTPOST study (OUTcomes POST COVID) aims to track 1,500 Australians aged 12 and over who are currently experiencing flu-like symptoms. Participants will be monitored from the onset of their illness, with follow-ups at six weeks, three months, six months, and one year, the release said.
The findings are expected to inform clinical practice and healthcare policy in Australia and internationally, with results anticipated by late 2026, it said.
The study seeks to address significant knowledge gaps, particularly in understanding how different viruses and the severity of initial infections influence the risk and nature of long-term symptoms, said Nigel Stocks, a professor from the University of Adelaide, part of the OUTPOST study.
According to the study's co-lead researcher Emeritus Professor Andrew Lloyd of the Kirby Institute, these lingering illnesses can range from mild to severely debilitating, impacting both physical and mental health, as well as social and economic well-being.
Lena Sanci, a professor from the University of Melbourne, also a co-lead investigator, said the study will identify care system gaps to enhance multidisciplinary support access.
The Department of Health in Australia's state of New South Wales said the number of new flu cases has increased every week since May 10, and noted that actual case numbers are likely much higher, as most people are not tested.
As of Thursday, Australia recorded 109,274 lab-confirmed flu cases, up from 96,247 at the end of May, compared to 73,640 in 2024 and 66,069 in 2023 at the same time, according to the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. ■
