Long-Term Smell Loss After Covid-19: New Study Reveals Persistent Olfactory Dysfunction

Sep 26, 2025 05:59 pm CST

A comprehensive study by US National Institutes of Health and NYU researchers has revealed that Covid-19 can cause smell impairment lasting years, even in those unaware of the issue. The largest study of its kind tested 3,535 individuals, finding that 80% of those reporting smell changes after Covid showed clinical impairment two years later, with 23% experiencing severe dysfunction or complete loss. Researchers recommend routine olfactory testing in post-Covid care.