COVID-19 and the brain: What do we know so far? Written by Ana Sandoiu on January 25, 2021 — Fact checked by Zia Sherrell, MPH What do we currently know about the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the brain? In this feature, we round up the emerging evidence. Sutthaburawonk/Getty Images All data and statistics are based on publicly available data at the time of publication. Some information may be out of date. for the most recent information on the COVID-19 pandemic. How does SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, affect the human brain? Recent studies have given us clues, shedding light on why COVID-19 can be so severe for some people and why the symptoms can last a long time.