COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 is an ongoing global pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 affects the human respiratory tract's epithelial cells, leading to a proinflammatory cytokine storm and chronic lung inflammation. With numerous patients dying daily, a vaccine and specific antiviral drug regimens are being explored. Probiotics are live microorganisms with proven beneficial effects on human health. While probiotics as nutritional supplements are long practiced in different cuisines across various countries, the emerging scientific evidence supports the antiviral and general immune-strengthening health effects of the probiotics. Here, we present an overview of the experimental studies published in the last 10 years that provide a scientific basis for unexplored probiotics as a preventive approach to respiratory viral infections. Based on collated insights from these experimental data, we identify promising microbial strains that may serve as lead prophylactic and immune-boosting probiotics in COVID-19 management.

由 SARS-CoV-2 引起的 COVID-19 是一种持续的全球大流行病。SARS-CoV-2 影响人类呼吸道的上皮细胞，导致促炎细胞因子风暴和慢性肺部炎症。由于每天都有大量患者死亡，因此正在探索疫苗和特定的抗病毒药物治疗方案。益生菌是活的微生物，已被证明对人体健康有益。虽然益生菌作为营养补充剂在不同国家/地区的不同菜肴中长期使用，但新出现的科学证据支持益生菌的抗病毒和一般免疫增强健康作用。在这里，我们概述了过去 10 年发表的实验研究，这些研究为未开发的益生菌作为呼吸道病毒感染的预防方法提供了科学依据。