Hepatitis B drug may be effective in mild COVID-19 form

A hepatitis B drug can be effective in treating a mild form of COVID-19. Experts believe that it will help strengthen the immune system of the patient, Stanford scientists noted.

According to The Daily Mail, it is planned to conduct clinical trials of this drug.

The drug contains an artificial form of natural protein, which helps the body control respiratory diseases, 'mobilizing' immunity around the infection site. With this medication, scientists hope to increase the rate of recovery and reduce the spread of the virus.

"Even though these individuals may not need hospitalization, infection with COVID-19 results in respiratory symptoms and lost productivity," co-lead author Dr Upinder Singh, a professor of infectious diseases and of microbiology and immunology at Stanford School of Medicine, said in a statement.

"Plus - and this is important - patients with mild disease contribute to community disease transmission.

"Limiting viral shedding from this group would reduce transmission to family members and others, which is crucial to controlling epidemic disease spread."

Receptors for the drug are found in the linings of the lungs and intestine - the main areas where COVID-19 attacks - and the liver.

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