inclusion criteria: documented covid-19 infection age >=18 to <=80 years interstitial pneumonia (findings of consolidation or ground glass opacities as assessed by chest hrct) respiratory distress, defined as pao2/fio2 ratio of >=100 <=300 mmhg, requiring supplemental oxygen and hospitalization

inclusion criteria: documented covid-19 infection age >=18 to <=80 years interstitial pneumonia (findings of consolidation or ground glass opacities as assessed by chest hrct) respiratory distress, defined as pao2/fio2 ratio of >=100 <=300 mmhg, requiring supplemental oxygen and hospitalization