A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology looked at samples of the gastrointestinal tract of patients who died after being diagnosed with Covid-19 during the first wave of the epidemic.Also read – This is how Milind Som maintains her toned abs and fit body at the age of 56, secrets of her diet and fitness revealed – see
Intestinal lymphoid tissue generally maintains a healthy intestinal microbial population that is essential for good health. The researchers observed that the system that normally controls the formation of microbial communities – otherwise known as the Pierce patch – was severely disrupted in the severe Covid-19. This was regardless of whether there was evidence of a virus in the gut. Also read – With Covid Wave subsidy, Odisha, Goa in other states removes additional restrictions. Check out the details here
While severe Covid-19 can lead to shortness of breath and high fever, some patients may experience diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, indicating gastrointestinal tract involvement. Also read – ‘Omicron-driven third covid wave has settled’: Policy Commission’s VK Paul urges everyone not to take down guards
Joe Spencer, a professor at King’s College London, said: “These studies show that in severe Covid-19, this key component of the immune system is disrupted, regardless of whether the intestines themselves are infected with SARS-CoV-2. This will probably contribute to disruption of the intestinal microbial population in COVID-19 reported by others. “
Observations of the specimens show structure and cellularity in the Pierce patch – a group of lymphoid follicles that line the small intestine – that is altered independently of the local levels of the virus. These include the depletion of germ centers in patients who have died from Covid-19, which usually propagates antibody-producing cells.
This can result in a weakened local immune system leading to a decrease in microbial diversity, known as dysbiosis. The researchers also noted that the findings suggest that oral vaccination may not be effective if the patient is already ill, as the intestinal immune system is already weakened.
(With input by ANI)
