COVID-19 Complications and Co-Infections: 2nd Edition

Dear Colleagues,

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, our understanding of the disease has undergone rapid development. We have gained significant insights into COVID-19, including its risk factors, pathophysiology, clinical course, outcomes, complications, prognosis, associated co-morbid conditions and co-infections, as well as optimal treatment and management options. However, despite these advancements, there are still notable gaps in our knowledge, especially as new variants continue to evolve and the long-term consequences of infection become increasingly apparent.

Building on the success of our first volume, this second Special Issue continues to examine the evolving landscape of short- and long-term clinical outcomes of COVID-19 and its associated co-infections. With the pandemic entering a new phase, understanding the impact of successive variants, waning immunity, and the burden of post-COVID-19 condition (Long COVID) is more critical than ever. We especially welcome the following contributions:

• Virology research that presents original empirical studies (using qualitative, mixed, and quantitative methods), systematic reviews, short communications, case reports, and brief reports. We are particularly interested in studies that contribute to our understanding of the course, outcomes, and prognosis of COVID-19 caused by emerging variants, as well as the pathogenesis and long-term sequelae of the disease.
• Research on multi-organ complications associated with COVID-19, which include cardiovascular disease, thrombosis, kidney damage, neurological conditions, and gastrointestinal symptoms. These complications, together with co-infections and superinfections such as bacterial pneumonia, influenza virus infection, and fungal infections (e.g., COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis), can significantly increase the severity, complexity, and mortality of the disease.
• Critical perspectives and articles that examine how clinical and public health initiatives and interventions can effectively reduce morbidity, mortality, and the burden on healthcare systems caused by COVID-19 and its complications. Submissions evaluating the real-world effectiveness of treatments and management strategies in the context of co-infections and a widely vaccinated population are crucial.

Understanding the nature of these complications and co-infections in the current phase of the pandemic is vital for informing strategies to effectively manage and treat COVID-19. We aim to bridge existing knowledge gaps and advance our understanding of this complex disease. Global perspectives in submissions are welcome.

Dr. Abu Baker Sheikh
Dr. Amir Humza Sohail
Dr. Mohammed Quazi
Guest Editors

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