The “Microbiome”: A Protagonist in COVID-19 Era

Abstract

Respiratory infections are among the main causes of hospitalization and mortality, particularly in elderly patients. Recent studies show that viral infections, such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus infection, cause imbalances in the intestinal microbiome. Some recent studies suggest a significant association between SARS-CoV-2 infection. There is no doubt that alteration of the intestinal microbiome can potentially predispose healthy individuals to an abnormal inflammatory state, which can further explain the susceptibility and severity of COVID-19. It is likely that an intervention strategy aimed at modulating the intestinal microbiota may be one of the therapeutic approaches of COVID-19 and its complications.