Using SARS-CoV-2-infected obese mice as model for cytokine storm seen in COVID-19, Institute of Science Tokyo researchers demonstrate efficacy of iguratimod in reducing excess inflammation without reducing antiviral immune response. Iguratimod significantly improved survival in these mouse models compared to when steroids like dexamethasone were administered. Conventional steroids reduce the inflammation while also suppressing immune responses against SARS-CoV-2, leading to reduced viral clearance from the lungs. Iguratimod presents a promising therapy for COVID-19-related inflammatory syndrome. 

Researchers from IGTP analysed in-hospital mortality in 5,813 COVID-19 patients across four epidemic waves in Catalonia, focusing on whether patients had a ceiling of care. Mortality decreased significantly over time for patients without a ceiling of care, but remained consistently high in those with one. These findings underscore the need to account for ceiling of care when evaluating COVID-19 outcomes and planning future healthcare responses.