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The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a highly infectious disease caused by SARS‐CoV‐2. Since its first report in December 2019, COVID‐19 has evolved into a global pandemic causing massive healthcare and socioeconomic challenges. HLA system is critical in mediating anti‐viral immunity and recent studies have suggested preferential involvement of HLA‐B in COVID‐19 susceptibility. Here, by investigating the HLA‐B genotypes in 190 unrelated Chinese patients with confirmed COVID‐19, we identified a significant positive association between the B22 serotype and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (p = 0.002, Bonferroni‐corrected p = 0.032). Notably, the B22 serotype has been consistently linked to susceptibility to other viral infections. These data not only shed new insights into SARS‐CoV‐2 pathogenesis and vaccine development but also guide better infection prevention/control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hb Tarrant [α126(H9)Asp→Asn;HBA2: c.379G > A (orHBA1)], is a rare high oxygen affinity hemoglobin (Hb) variant that causes erythrocytosis, previously described in a few Mexican–American families. Here we report the first Chinese family with this Hb variant presenting with unexplained familial erythrocytosis. No evidence of hemolysis was seen. A locally adapted approach to the diagnostic process in clinical laboratories is discussed. Molecular analysis has an important role in confirmation of the diagnosis. Proper identification of this rare but clinically significant Hb variant is helpful for family counseling and will help to guide appropriate management of absolute erythrocytosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented which discusses the risk of thrombosis in patients with thrombocythaemia.