Neanderthal Genes Linked to Increased COVID-19 Severity in New Italian Study

Study from Italy's Bergamo finds Neanderthal genes inherited by some individuals made them more susceptible to severe COVID-19.

Those with Neanderthal haplotype twice as likely to develop severe pneumonia from COVID-19.

Neanderthal haplotype less common in mild/asymptomatic cases.

Study adds to evidence linking Neanderthal genes to COVID-19 severity.

Neanderthal haplotype virtually absent in Africa, possibly contributing to lower COVID-19 severity there.