Studies have shown that malnutrition leads to alteration of the production of IgA-committed B cells. IgA serves as an important first line defence by protecting vast surfaces of gastrointestinal, respiratory and genitourinary tracts from potential attack of invading micro-organisms. Thus, making the body more susceptible to numerous diseases. 

Effect of decreased B cells on immune functions

- Decrease in effector T-cells
-Increased apoptosis in lymphocytes
-  Decrease of B-cells in blood
- Decrease in vaccination titre response

University of California, Santa Cruz

Proper nutrition is essential for the body to fight off viral infections. Lack of proper nutrition can not only decrease the immune system's ability to fend off infection, but also increase the likelihood of other comorbidities that increase the fatality of COVID-19.

The effects of malnutrition on fighting COVID-19

Hakeem, R., & Sheikh, M. A. (2020). Beyond transmission: Dire need for integration of nutrition interventions in COVID-19 pandemic-response strategies in Developing Countries like Pakistan. Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences, 36(COVID19-S4). doi:10.12669/pjms.36.covid19-s4.2784

Beyond transmission: Dire need for integration of nutrition interventions in COVID-19 pandemic-response strategies in Developing Countries like Pakistan

Severe Malnutrition

- Decrease in thymus size
- Increase in Th2 cytokines

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