Blood thinners could be given to all hospital Covid patients

BLOOD thinners could be given to all Covid-19 patients in hospital after researchers discovered blood clots are a key feature of the infection.

NHS England is drawing up new guidelines on the use of anticoagulants for the critically ill.

These are expected to advise doctors to use thinning drugs routinely.

Medics have warned half of hospitalised coronavirus patients have dangerous clots in the lungs and brain.

Experts believe this is because Covid19 triggers a major inflammatory response which narrows blood vessels.

The virus also seems to make the blood more ‘sticky’ – also raising the chance of a clot.

Doctors around the world have begun using thinners to ward off this risk.

The NHS could soon follow suit after a study of 150 people at Royal Brompton Hospital in London found a clear link between Covid-19 and clotting.

All of those tested suffered a lack of blood flow, suggesting clotting within the small vessels in the lung.

Dr Brijesh Patel, of Royal Brompton and Imperial College London, said: ‘I think the majority will end up on significant therapeutic doses of bloodthinning agents as we learn more about this disease. If these interventions are implemented appropriately, they will save lives.’

Some experts have called for all coronavirus patients to be given a blood test, which gives a level called ‘Ddimer’ that indicates clotting risk.

But others said most have such high levels that it is quicker and safer just to treat all patients with thinners.