Within the host cell, the virus is surrounded by a cell-membrane derived vesicle — the endosome — within which the virus replicates.11 CQ is believed to accumulate in lysosomes, which may interrupt the usual process of lysosome–endosome fusion, thereby inhibiting release of the viral contents.11,12 Moreover, CQ may also block the production of interleukin-6 and other pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are key mediators of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).11 The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is acute respiratory distress syndrome.