High level of T cells from common colds can protect from COVID-19 infection, study finds

High level of T cells from common colds can protect from COVID-19 infection, study finds
AFP
Monday 10 January 2022 - 23:13

High levels of T cells from common colds are useful for people in avoiding COVID-19 infection, according to a new peer-reviewed study released by researchers at Imperial College London.

T cells are a type of white blood cell that plays an essential role in protecting the body from infection.

Researchers said the findings might lead to the development of new vaccines, which could provide longer-lasting immunity as well as boost protection against present and future Coronavirus variants, such as Omicron and Delta.

“We found that high levels of pre-existing T cells, created by the body when infected with other human coronaviruses like the common cold, can protect against COVID-19 infection,” said the study author, Dr. Rhia Kundu.

Using blood samples from 52 people within six days, this study explored the levels of T cells that have been induced by previous common cold COVID infections but also cross-recognized COVID proteins in those who had been exposed to the virus, as well as those who had not.

This study’s results showed that the 26 people who did not contract COVID-19 had higher levels of cross-reactive T cells, whereas those who were already positive for COVID-19 had lower levels of T cells.

add your comment

Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.

Politics
Foreign Minister Bourita outlines diplomatic priorities amid global instability
Sunday 15 November 2026 - 12:00

Foreign Minister Bourita outlines diplomatic priorities amid global instability

News
Moroccan passport ranks 49th out of 50 in Happy Passports Index 2026
Sunday 15 November 2026 - 10:05

Moroccan passport ranks 49th out of 50 in Happy Passports Index 2026

Society
62% of Casablanca respondents report sexual harassment on public buses, study finds
Saturday 14 November 2026 - 22:46

62% of Casablanca respondents report sexual harassment on public buses, study finds

Politics
Lekjaa defends livestock and red meat import duty exemption as PJD warns of harm to national herd
Saturday 14 November 2026 - 21:15

Lekjaa defends livestock and red meat import duty exemption as PJD warns of harm to national herd