Covid-19 decreases immune system T cells, making patients more vulnerable


By AGENCY

An illustration of T cells attacking a cancer cell. These white blood cells also help to fight off infections, but appear to be decreased in Covid-19 patients. — 123rf.com

Cytokine storms may affect the severity of Covid-19 cases by lowering T cell counts, according to a new study published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology.

Researchers studying coronavirus cases in China found that sick patients had a significantly low number of T cells – a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in immune response – and that T cell counts were negatively correlated with case severity.

Limited time offer:
Just RM5 per month.

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM5/month

Billed as RM5/month for the 1st 6 months then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Health

Diagnosing prostate cancer too early might cause more harm than good
Consensual 'touch interventions' boost both physical and mental health
Beware the sting of wasps and hornets as it could be fatal
Practise 'speech fasting' for heart, brain and mental benefits
Delivering drugs through the skin
Ladies, eat a Japanese diet to protect your brain
Our sense of balance is crucial to prevent falls
When loneliness triggers those sugar cravings
Prostate cancer cases to double in two decades
Staying active from ages 15 to 17 important for adult mental well-being

Others Also Read