Table 1 Inclusion criteria

a) Adults (age 18 years or older)

b) Confirmed COVID-19 based on a positive RT-PCR test or rapid antigen test for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a respiratory specimen (nasopharyngeal or nasal swab)

c) Requiring in-hospital care

d) A chest imaging study compatible with pneumonia (X-ray or computed tomography)

e) SpO2 ≥ 94% and < 22 bpm breathing on room air

f) The presence of at least two of the following inflammatory biomarkers:

 • LDH > 245 U/L

 • CRP > 100 mg/L

 • Lymphocyte count < 0.80 × 10⁹/L