The COVID Advisor

Abstract Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), affects millions worldwide, manifesting as persistent symptoms including fatigue, cognitive impairment, and multi-organ dysfunction. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on the role of the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein in long COVID pathophysiology, focusing on mechanisms such as persistent inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. We searched major databases using keywords related to "SARS-CoV-2 spike protein," "long COVID," and "post-acute sequelae," identifying 76 relevant studies published up to August 2025. Key findings indicate that persistent S protein, detected in tissues up to 4 years post-infection, drives chronic inflammation via TLR4 activation and cytokine dysregulation (1, 2). Therapeutic targets include S protein-neutralizing agents and autophagy enhancers. This review highlights the need for longitudinal studies to confirm...

Overview A new COVID-19 variant, identified as NB.1.8.1, has recently emerged and is drawing international attention due to its increasing prevalence, particularly in China, and its detection in the United States and other countries. October 2025 Update: The Stratus Variant (XFG): Symptoms, Global Spread, and Impact in Late 2025 1. Emergence and Spread of NB.1.8.1 Origin and Detection: NB.1.8.1 was first identified as a significant driver of rising COVID-19 cases in China. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed its presence in the United States, though as of late May 2025, fewer than 20 cases had been reported domestically. Global Spread: The World Health Organization (WHO) and multiple health authorities have noted that NB.1.8.1 is now spreading worldwide, with cases reported in several countries. Its rapid dissemination has raised concerns about potential increases in COVID-19 cases in various regions. 2. Variant Characteristics Genetic Profile: NB.1.8.1 ...

In clinic today I want to address the most common question I get from patients, “have I been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein through infection, shedding, or vaccination, and what should I do about it?” This video will explain that you can now take matters into your own hands and order a Spike protein antibody test from Labcorp Labs On Demand and get the results within a few days. Here is a quick guide of interpretation of your results: <1000 U/ml very low level past exposure, negligible risks 1000-5000 U/ml symptoms or problem could be related to Spike protein >5000 U/ml Spike protein likely circulating in your bloodstream 10,000-25,000 U/ml very high risk for cardiac damage, blood clots, neurologic problems, autoimmunity, and potentially cancer Remember the antibodies are an indirect reflection of Spike protein and do not change quickly. My advice is not to check the test again for a year. Above is one of my patients who has resolved his Spike syndrome with detoxificati...

An adviser to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) who voted in favor of a respiratory syncytial virus antibody for infants says new data that has come to light indicates that the vote was based on presentations that omitted crucial information. “It appears that this decision was based on manipulated data analyses,” Dr. Robert Malone, a member of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), said in a blog post on Aug. 20. Malone and four other members of the panel in June voted to advise the CDC to recommend the antibody called clesrovimab for infants to try to prevent respiratory syncytial virus. Known as RSV, the virus typically causes mild symptoms such as a cold but can, in some cases, lead to severe problems and, according to the CDC, is a leading cause of infant hospitalization. Two members voted to advise the CDC not to recommend clesrovimab. The vote followed presentations by CDC epidemiologist Adam MacNeil and Dr. Matthew Daley, who works cl...