Researchers identify inflammatory protein linked to severe Covid-19

Scientists say further research is still needed. Photo: Ben Birchall/PA

Patients with severe Covid-19 show increased levels of a key protein in their blood, which researchers believe may help identify those most at risk.

In an analysis of more than 500 coronavirus patients across the UK, scientists identified several inflammatory markers in blood that increased within the early stages of Covid-19 in those who went on to become critically ill.