SARS-CoV-2 is the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic. It appears to cause only mild to moderate upper respiratory symptoms in children, in addition to gastrointestinal symptoms resulting from its penetration into intestinal cells. Viral respiratory infections are often accompanied by a change in the composition of the gut microbiota (GM). Additionally, intestinal metabolites and integrity appear to be altered. This work aims to study the composition of the GM of Lebanese children, currently (n=14) and previously (n=33) infected with SARS-CoV-2 and to compare it to pre-pandemic controls (n=39). Furthermore, the correlation between the composition of the GM and the intestinal homeostasis are evaluated. Clinical data and stool samples were collected from children aged 1 month to 12 years. The bacterial profile is determined by quantitative PCR and 16S rRNA sequencing. Levels of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), fecal calprotectin, beta defensin type 2 (hBD-2), short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), tryptophan derivatives, and bile acids are also evaluated. Given the well-established relationship between the GM and the immune system, the results of this study could serve as a potential basis for the implementation of personalized nutrition and biotic supplementations aimed at restoring the host-microbiota symbiosis, pointing to the prevention and treatment of COVID-19

Inclusion Criteria:

• Within age limits
• positive PCR

Exclusion Criteria:

• metabolic disorders, hepatic disorders, immunodeficiency, allergy, autoimmune diseases, IBD, food intolerance, antibiotic administration within 3 months, pro and prebiotic administration within 3 months

children aged between 1 month and 12 years are enrolled in the study. Sample from the control group were collected before the pandemic (for a previous study).

For the infected and recovered children, a positive PCR test is is required for their enrollment in the study.

All the children are healthy and do not suffer from any disease or comorbidity