Inside Health – Where are we at with long Covid? – BBC Sounds

by | Aug 13, 2026 | Health

Inside Health - Where are we at with long Covid? - BBC Sounds

More than six years into the Covid pandemic, millions of people continue to experience long Covid symptoms. Recent research has offered a glimmer of possibility for those affected by the condition.

A clinical trial conducted jointly by University College London and University College London Hospitals examined the potential of two existing medications to help long Covid patients. The study looked at over-the-counter antihistamines combined with colchicine, a prescription anti-inflammatory medication. Results showed these drugs produced a small reduction in fatigue among participants, though researchers caution that this represents a modest improvement rather than a definitive treatment.

Professor Danny Altmann, an immunologist at Imperial College London, provided expert perspective on the findings and discussed the broader challenges in understanding the condition. He highlighted several upcoming studies that researchers hope will advance understanding of long Covid and potentially lead to more effective interventions.

In other health-related developments, data on stomas revealed that approximately one in 335 people in the UK live with this condition. According to Colostomy UK, accessibility remains a significant concern, with more than 60 percent of stoma patients reporting that inadequate toilet facilities impact their daily lives. In response to a campaign initiated in Bristol, B&Q made modifications to disabled toilet facilities across its stores to better accommodate people with stomas, representing a step toward improved accessibility.

Separately, claims circulating on social media have suggested that ice cream consumption may reduce type 2 diabetes risk. Nutritional scientist Dr Sarah Berry from King’s College London addressed these assertions, examining what has been termed the ‘ice cream paradox’ to help clarify the science behind such claims.

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