Scientists warn some Covid-19 sufferers could develop psychosis as link with condition is studied

Coronavirus is known to be associated with a range of unpleasant signs, and now a new study has highlighted a lesser-known symptom - psychosis.

Researchers at Orygen and La Trobe University in Australia have warned that the deadly virus is causing psychotic episodes for some patients.

Dr Ellie Brown, co-lead author of the study, said: “Covid-19 is a very stressful experience for everyone, particularly those with complex mental health needs.

“We know that psychosis, and first episodes of psychosis, are commonly triggered by substantial psychosocial stresses. In the context of Covid-19, this could include stress relating to isolation and having to potentially remain within challenging family situations.”

Links to Covid-19 are being studied (PA Archive/PA Images)

Researchers other viruses such as MERS as SARS, to examine if there was a connection on how these might impact people with psychosis, MirrorOnline reports.

The results suggest that some coronavirus patients may experience psychotic symptoms, such as hearing voices.

Professor Richard Gray, co-lead author of the study, said: “Maintaining infection control procedures when people are psychotic is challenging.

“In order for them not to become potential transmitters of the virus, clinicians and service providers may benefit from specific infection control advice to mitigate any transmission risk.”

Scientists hope their findings will spark further research into more severe mental health conditions like psychosis and their links to the pandemic.

Professor Gray added: “This is a group that's probably going to need more support, with isolation, physical distancing, hand washing etc, and clinicians may be the ones who need to be thinking and working on this to assist this vulnerable population.

According to the NHS, psychosis patients normally experience three main symptoms.

It explained: “Someone who develops psychosis will have their own unique set of symptoms and experiences, according to their particular circumstances.

“But in general, three main symptoms are associated with a psychotic episode: hallucinations, delusions, confused and disturbed thoughts.”