University of Oxford scientists have uncovered a gene that doubles the risk of lung failure and death from Covid.

They say around 60% of people from South Asian backgrounds and 15% of people of European ancestry carry the high-risk version of the gene. Vaccines are key and help significantly reduce these risks, researchers say. The Nature Genetics study sheds light on why  some communities in the UK and South Asia are at higher risk from Covid - but does not fully explain it.

Building on previous genetic work, researchers used a combination of artificial intelligence and new molecular technology to pinpoint the exact gene - called LZTFL1 - responsible for the increased risks. 
Source : BBC