From the moment we first learned of the word “coronavirus,” there have been countless reports detailing everything about the virus—the symptoms, how to protect yourself, what to do if you have it, etc.

Even though we’ve come a long way, there are still so many unknowns regarding COVID-19. One of the biggest concerns in particular is why some people are affected worse than others.

We know that COVID-19 is riskiest in people who are elderly or those with underlying health conditions or who are immunocompromised. However, there have also been cases where healthy young people who have had an extreme case and have even passed away.

On the contrary (and on the bright side), there have also been elderly people who’ve had mild cases and recovered well. (We commend this 103-year-old who beat coronavirus and then proceed to crack open a beer!).

In addition, another big question is why do some people get the virus while others who may have been exposed don’t? Is there a reason why some people may be more at risk and others are less?

What we’re getting at is, just because you’re young and healthy doesn’t mean you’re necessarily safe, and just because you have a health condition or are older than 75 doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily have a bad case either. The whole thing can really make you wonder what would happen if you contracted the virus yourself!

Scientists have been studying these questions and finally may have a clue into why some people are more badly affected by coronavirus than others. And while a lot of it does have to do with age and health factors, your blood type may also play a role.

Preliminary data in one new study found that if your blood type is Type A, then you may be at greater risk. However, those with Type O blood seem to be more protected against the virus.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that just because you have Type O that you should go hugging everyone you know. Your blood type won’t guarantee protection, you just may be more protected than others.

Additionally, the study found that between the two blood types, Type A people were more likely to need oxygen or a ventilator in they were to get the virus, while Type O people were less likely to need those aids.

At the moment, scientists don’t have similar data on those with blood Type B or AB, as Type A and Type O are more popular. Hopefully, as time goes on, we’ll learn about other blood types as well. For now, check out the video below for more details on the findings.

What’s your blood type? What does this new information say about your risk of coronavirus?