COVID-19 affects the microbiome

Many microorganisms are located in the human intestine, which support the body in digestion and protect against pathogens. However, COVID-19 can damage the so-called microbiome, as the virus may also infect the cells of the intestinal mucosa.

The microbiome can be influenced by various factors such as diet, drug intake and a healthy immune system. If the body’s defense system is in balance, it can differentiate between healthy and harmful intestinal bacteria – if this balance does not exist, pathogenic microorganisms have an easy time. They can settle more easily, multiply and cause diseases and infections. COVID  -19  also has an impact on the microbiome.

Corona and intestines: effects and consequences

COVID-19 not only affects the respiratory tract of patients, the stomach and intestines can also be affected by the virus. Researchers from the University of Hong Kong analyzed  stool samples  from 100 patients who had been hospitalized for COVID-19 in the spring.

The researchers examined the DNA contained in the stool samples. From this they concluded the type and frequency of different intestinal bacteria. The study at a glance:

• 41 patients provided multiple stool samples.
• Of these, 27 patients continued to provide samples up to 30 days after discharge from the hospital.
• Comparison group: Microbiome 78 adults screened before the pandemic.

There were clear differences in the composition of the microbiome between the two groups. One reason for this could be the antibiotic treatment at the beginning of the pandemic, which was tried as a form of therapy for COVID-19 disease. But those affected who were not treated with  antibiotics also  showed clear differences to the comparison group.

The changes in the microbiome are also evident after the infection has been overcome. The composition of the  intestinal flora  is sometimes associated with high inflammatory parameters and increased laboratory values, for example increased liver enzyme values.

However, it remains to be seen whether the change in the microbiome will persist in the long term and could be another symptom of long-COVID.

The scientists also found no sufficient reason for the change in the intestinal flora. In addition to the use of antibiotics, the overreaction of the immune system could also affect the microbiome. The scientists recommend further studies in this context. It is also being discussed whether a stool transplant makes sense in the case of a corona infection.