The Role of Bacterial and Fungal Human Respiratory Microbiota in COVID-19 Patients

Recently, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiologic agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has led to a worldwide pandemic with millions of infected patients. Alteration in humans' microbiota was also reported in COVID-19 patients. The alteration in human microbiota may contribute to bacterial or viral infections and affect the immune system. Moreover, human's microbiota can be altered due to SARS-CoV-2 infection, and these microbiota changes can indicate the progression of COVID-19. While current studies focus on the gut microbiota, it seems necessary to pay attention to the lung microbiota in COVID-19. This study is aimed at reviewing respiratory microbiota dysbiosis among COVID-19 patients to encourage further studies on the field for assessment of SARS-CoV-2 and respiratory microbiota interaction.

Automated summary

Recent studies have shown that the microbiota of COVID-19 patients may be altered, potentially impacting immune function and disease progression. While current research primarily focuses on gut microbiota, it is essential to also consider the lung microbiota in COVID-19 patients. This study aims to review respiratory microbiota dysbiosis among COVID-19 patients to encourage further exploration of the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and respiratory microbiota.