People with blood type 2 have an increased risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2, scientists from Harvard Medical School have found. This discovery was made as a result of laboratory experiments performed on blood cells obtained from people with blood types A (II) and O (I). SARS-CoV-2 virus proved to be particularly aggressive to blood group II cells.
However, scientists needed further research to understand why this was the case. They found that the virus had a greater affinity for proteins on the surface of type II cells. This makes its entry into cells easier and more efficient. To confirm this mechanism, the scientists added a protein that blocked the virus from recognizing proteins on the cell surface, and thus prevented the infection of second blood type cells.
Previous studies had already indicated that people with blood group two were 20% more likely to be infected with SARS-CoV-2 than people with blood group one. Until now, however, there has been no clarity about the mechanism that could explain this difference.
The scientists pointed out that the findings do not mean that people with blood type 1 can neglect precautions to reduce their risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2. On the contrary, all people, regardless of blood type, should follow the recommendations to wear masks, wash their hands frequently and maintain a social distance.
The COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, and scientists are constantly investigating new aspects of the virus. It is interesting to note that blood type may play a role not only in susceptibility to COVID-19, but also in other diseases. Some studies show a link between blood type and risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer and other pathologies. However, more research is needed to fully understand this relationship.
In light of the new findings, doctors and scientists urge people to be especially attentive to preventive measures and to follow all recommendations to prevent the spread of the virus. Regardless of blood type, everyone should take responsibility and help fight the pandemic.
