A new study by scientists at Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) suggests that parasitic worm infections could help reduce the severity of COVID-19 symptoms.
Led by Professor Alexander Yaw Debrah, the research found that individuals who were co-infected with parasitic worms and the COVID-19 virus were less likely to experience severe symptoms. According to the findings, those with worm infections were more likely to remain asymptomatic or experience only mild symptoms.
The study, published in the journal Vaccines, highlights how parasitic infections—common in many African communities—may influence the immune system’s response to new viral threats like COVID-19.
“This research offers valuable insight into how immune responses differ across regions,” Prof Debrah said. “It could help shape more inclusive global health strategies, especially in low- and middle-income countries.”
The KNUST team emphasised that while the results are promising, further investigation is needed to fully understand the interaction between parasitic infections and viral immunity.
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