SARS-CoV-2 preferentially infects astrocytes, which support neuron function, potentially leading to symptoms like fatigue and confusion.

SARS-CoV-2 can also infect pericytes, leading to restricted blood flow and small-vessel strokes.

Nearly half of those infected with SARS-CoV-2 experience long-term neurological problems, including brain fog and memory issues.

An infection may accelerate or exacerbate prion diseases like Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, leading to rapid neurodegeneration.