Impact of COVID-19 on senses like smell and taste

Short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on multiple sensory systems

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11013320

This study is looking at how COVID-19 impacts your sense of smell and taste, both right after you get sick and in the long run, especially with new variants and vaccines, to help understand how these changes affect everyday life for people who have recovered from the virus.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11013320 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how COVID-19 affects multiple sensory systems, particularly focusing on the loss of smell and taste, which are common symptoms of the virus. It aims to understand both short-term and long-term effects of the infection on these senses, especially in the context of new variants and vaccination. By analyzing data from patients who have recovered from COVID-19, the study seeks to clarify the extent of sensory dysfunction and its implications for daily life. The methodology includes patient surveys, sensory testing, and neurological assessments to gather comprehensive data.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced loss of smell or taste following a COVID-19 infection.

Not a fit: Patients who have not contracted COVID-19 or those without sensory dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of sensory impairments caused by COVID-19, enhancing recovery strategies for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown significant sensory impacts from viral infections, suggesting that this study's focus on COVID-19 is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions after COVID-19 infectionafter infection by SARS-CoV-2after SARS-CoV-2 infectionafter SARS-CoV2 infectionafter severe acute respiratory distress syndrome CoV-2 infection
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.