Preliminary studies have shown that those living at higher elevations may be less susceptible to the severe side effects of coronavirus. The research shows so far that two major factors are contributing to a less severe outbreak of the virus: thinner air and higher altitudes.

Those who consistently breathe in thinner air are used to having less oxygen in their blood, and may experience the breathlessness that comes with coronavirus less severely. The virus also cannot survive as long in a high altitude. This could lead to treatment with those who have the virus.