Do high white cell numbers give a greater immunity to covid 19?

[jointpain]

My darling wife, having MF, and no spleen, is rightly a "shielded" person. We were wondering whether her white cell count which is at or just above the high normal range would stand her in good stead if she ever fought covid 19? And on the other hand my white cell count is always at or below the normal range, would I fair less well having a low count? I do not have a shielding letter! Is there any evidence of poor quality white cells in MF or are white cells just white cells?

[Wyebird]

I wondered about that- but I have no idea what the answer is. I look forward to seeing your replies

[jointpain]

I wouldn't hold your breath! I was looking at cytokine storms in the New Scientist. It seems that well developed immune systems that have experience of viruses are more likely to have a cytokine storm than a youngster with an underdeveloped immune system. The storm causes an immune response that can flood the lungs with inflammation (liquid) which is a problem. It doesn't really address my question though. We have a call scheduled for next week from the hematologist so we will ask an expert then.

[Otterfield]

My white cells have been quite high recently and I asked my haematologist this question. I'm afraid the answer was no.

[clubdino]

Some of the white cells are immature and are unable to do their job correctly. They have left the bone marrow prematurely. So, unfortunately I think the answer is no.