28.04.2026
Separating Fact from Fiction: The National Reference Center at the Long Night of Research
This year's Long Night of Research was a resounding success. The National Reference Center for Postviral Syndromes hosted its own booth to educate the public about Long COVID and ME/CFS and to engage in direct dialogue with attendees.
Experiencing science firsthand and making complex medical topics accessible – that was the goal of our team at the Long Night of Research on April 24, 2026. At our interactive booth, everything revolved around a highly relevant topic: "Facts and Myths about Long COVID and ME/CFS".
Education as a Core Mission
Postviral syndromes like Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) severely impact the quality of life of those affected. Nevertheless, many misunderstandings still surround these complex illnesses in the public sphere. At our booth, we made it our specific goal to provide scientifically sound facts and dismantle common prejudices.
Our station focused on the following topics:
- Scientific Context: What happens in the body during postviral syndromes?
- Myth-Busting: Which widespread assumptions about Long COVID and ME/CFS have long been scientifically disproven?
- Raising Awareness: The importance of early diagnosis, symptom management (such as pacing), and the recognition of these diseases in a societal context.
Great Interest and Valuable Exchange
The interest from visitors was enormous. In numerous in-depth conversations with interested individuals, patients, and their families, it became clear once again just how high the demand is for evidence-based, reliable information.
For us as the National Reference Center, it is a major priority not only to discuss current research findings within the medical community but also to bring them into society through active science communication. This direct exchange helps to break down stigmas and promote a broader understanding of postviral diseases.
We would like to sincerely thank all visitors for their great interest, curious questions, and the valuable conversations!
