Dr Rubina Ahmed, the Stroke Association’s research director said the study was crucial but also “just the tip of the iceberg”.
She said: “Stroke already strikes every five minutes and we’re extremely concerned that Covid-19 may lead to more strokes, destroying more lives.
“Equally concerning are reports that stroke patients who have Covid-19 may be younger, and experience more severe effects of stroke, including death.
“Severe illness due to Covid-19 is a challenge enough but it’s worrying that a deadly stroke might also be on the way.
“This new research can help guide the development of new treatments that can prevent life-threatening strokes.”