In a recent study, researchers found that there are certain genetic mutations that can make certain people more susceptible to severe COVID-19 infection.
These mutations affect the production of interferon gamma (IFN-γ), an immune system protein that helps fight viral infections like COVID-19.
The study found that individuals with two copies of a specific genetic variant had a 20% greater risk of developing severe disease compared to those without it.
Another variant was associated with a more rapid progression from mild to severe disease.