The gut’s microbiota has long been recognized for its impact on overall wellbeing by priming the immune system’s white blood cells that produce antibodies which clear foreign toxins.

This effect by the microbiota is not only retained in the intestinal system but spreads via the lymphatic and blood circulatory systems, influencing immune response in other parts of the body. So, what this means is that even though the pathogen is found in the gut, an immune response can also be triggered in the lungs.