According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, how does COVID-19 affect the brain?

The assertion that COVID-19 damages white matter in the brain is supported by various studies and reports from health organizations, including the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Research has shown that individuals who have contracted COVID-19 can experience neurological complications, which may include damage to white matter. White matter consists of myelinated axons that facilitate communication between different regions of the brain, and damage in this area can lead to various cognitive and neurological deficits.

Empirical evidence suggests that inflammation associated with COVID-19 can lead to changes in brain structure and functioning, particularly affecting areas crucial for cognition and coordination. Symptoms such as "brain fog," impaired memory, and confusion that have been reported in some COVID-19 patients further highlight the potential impact on the brain's white matter.

This understanding also helps frame why the other responses do not hold true; they do not align with the current findings on COVID-19's effects on brain health. The notion of improved neural connectivity or enhanced cognitive function contradicts the documented impairments experienced by some patients. Additionally, stating that COVID-19 has no effect on the brain overlooks the significant body of research indicating neurological issues associated with the virus.