The introduction of probiotics in healthy elderly adults led to increased activity of natural killer cells and increased mononuclear leukocytes, a type of white blood cells important for fighting off infection. 


Santa Clara University

The gut microbiota is thought to be  an important regulator of antiviral immune responses.  Studies have shown that modulating the gut microbiota has been able to reduce viral-related enteritis, severe pneumonia cases requiring ventilator assistance, and the spread of influenza in lung epithelial cells.  It is thought that probiotic treatment in COVID-19 patients could promote a healthy gut microecology, which could mitigate GI symptoms, as well as protect the respiratory system from other infections via the bi-directional communication network that is thought to exist between the gut and lung microbiotas.  

Using Probiotics to Treat or Prevent COVID-19

Dhar, D., & Mohanty, A. (2020). Gut microbiota and Covid-19- possible link and implications. Virus research, 285, 198018. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2020.198018


Gut microbiota and Covid-19- possible link and implications.

How Probiotics Benefit the Immune System 

Because of their beneficial effects on strengthening the immune system, prescribing supplements such as prebiotics and probiotics to the elderly, immunocompromised individuals and front-line health care workers may be a cost-effective and important strategy in preventing and controlling the spread of the virus.  

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