The 2nd Long-COVID Symposium of the German Centers for Health Research (DZG) took place on May 9, 2025, at the Senckenberg Museum in Frankfurt and attracted significant interest: Around 250 participants followed the event on-site or online via livestream. More than 130 experts from all eight DZG centers presented the latest research findings, discussed open questions, and explored ways to improve care for those affected.
Long COVID affects multiple organ systems – including the heart, lungs, brain, immune system, metabolism, and mental health. Accordingly, the program covered a wide range of topics, from cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases to neurological and immunological aspects, as well as mental health, sleep disorders, and the situation of children and adolescents.
The symposium concluded with a panel discussion under the guiding question: “The future of Long-COVID research – what do patients need?” The panelists included:
Johanna Theobald (Long COVID Deutschland)
Martin Walter (Long COVID Physicians’ Association)
Researchers from the DZG
This direct exchange with patients and experts formed a key closing highlight of the event.
Just a few days after the symposium, the new Federal Minister of Research, Dorothee Bär, emphasized the importance of Long-COVID research and advocated for intensified efforts as well as closer cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Health – a strong signal for all involved.
All presentations are permanently available on YouTube:
Playlist with individual sessions (Time codes in the video description link directly to each talk.)
Further Information: 2nd Long COVID Symposium of the German Centres for Health Research (DZG) - DZG – Deutsche Zentren der Gesundheitsforschung
