---
title: COVID-19 Update Episode 5
description: "COVID-19 Update: Episode 5 | Optimal DX | Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis Software"
---

[The Optimal DX Research Blog ](https://www.optimaldx.com/research-blog)

# [COVID-19 Update Episode 5](https://www.optimaldx.com/research-blog/covid-update-episode-5)

 Written by [ODX Research](https://www.optimaldx.com/research-blog/author/odx-research) | Jun 4, 2020 7:00:00 AM

## The COVID-19 Update Episode 5

### Dr. Dicken Weatherby & Beth Ellen DiLuglio, MS, RDN, LDN

Welcome to episode 5 of "COVID-19 Update" recorded June 3rd, 2020.

Here's a breakdown of what we covered and timing:

1. Introduction (0:00)
2. COVID-19 Testing Update - (0:01:10)
3. Vitamin D Update (0:05:30)
4. T Cells (0:07:49)
5. COVID-19, Co-Morbidities and How to evaluate the weaknesses (0: 09:40)
6. Optimal - The Biomarkers: Omega 3 Index (0:17:45)
7. Optimal - The Biomarkers: LDL-HDL Ratio (0:30:00)
8. Optimal - The Biomarkers: Apo B - Apo A1 Ratio (0:40:20)

## Research Studies and Links

### CDC Interim Guidelines for COVID-19 Antibody Testing in Clinical & Public Health Settings

Three strategies can be used to improve positive predictive value:

At present, the immunologic correlates of immunity from SARS-CoV-2 infection are not well defined. "additional data are needed before modifying public health recommendations based on serologic test results, including decisions on discontinuing physical distancing and using personal protective equipment? [[R]](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/lab/resources/antibody-tests-guidelines.html)

### McCartney recommends vitamin D for COVID19 prophylaxis

**Conclusions:** Vitamin D deficiency (serum 25(OH)D is less than 50 nmol/l [20 ng/mL]. Supplementation with doses up to 100µg/d [4000 IU] has been shown to be safe for adults, and many agencies and expert groups now advocate supplementation in older adults, albeit at lower levels than this. Vitamin D deficiency is common and may contribute to increased risk of respiratory infection including Covid-19.

McCartney, D M, and D G Byrne. “Optimisation of Vitamin D Status for Enhanced Immuno-protection Against Covid-19.” Irish medical journal vol. 113,4 58. 3 Apr. 2020 [[R]](https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Daniel_Mccartney3/publication/340488242_Optimisation_of_Vitamin_D_Status_for_Enhanced_Immuno-protection_Against_Covid-19/links/5e8c947a299bf13079854c57/Optimisation-of-Vitamin-D-Status-for-Enhanced-Immuno-protection-Against-Covid-19.pdf)

### Reduction and Functional Exhaustion of T Cells in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

**Conclusions:** T cell counts are reduced significantly in COVID-19 patients, and the surviving T cells appear functionally exhausted. Non-ICU patients with total T cells counts lower than 800/μL may still require urgent intervention, even in the immediate absence of more severe symptoms due to a high risk for further deterioration in condition.

Diao, Bo et al. “Reduction and Functional Exhaustion of T Cells in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).” Frontiers in immunology vol. 11 827. 1 May. 2020 [[R]](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/pmid/32425950/)

[View full post](https://www.optimaldx.com/research-blog/covid-update-episode-5)

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