I don't believe that "long COVID" refers to lingering effects due to damage long after the body fights off the COVID-19 virus.
I think, in hindsight, "long COVID" has been found to be highly correlated with glutathione deficiency in the elderly. The lack of glutathione allowed COVID-19 to cause oxidative stress, which the body normally fights off with glutathione. With glutathione deficiency, the free radical super-oxidants will combine into hydrogen peroxide (which glutathione also breaks down into oxygen and water) and begin to attack the organs.
The supplement NAC will keep glutathione levels high, avoid glutathione deficiency, and help fight off the worst effects of COVID-19.
-PJ
bkmk