Abstract: This disclosure describes the use of indane acetic acid derivatives which are PPAR agonists, including PPAR delta, PPAR gamma, and dual PPAR delta and gamma agonists, and which penetrate the blood brain barrier to achieve effective brain to plasma drug levels at non-toxic doses, for the treatment of betacoronavirus diseases, such as COVID-19 and COVID-19 related co-morbid diseases, including Acute Respiratory Distress and CNS disorders, such as delirium and cognitive impairment.