We observed that 70.3% (n=71) of patients with COVID-19 were able to reach ASHA levels 6-7 (i.e., swallowing is safe, and the individual eats and drinks independently, with requirement of minimal cueing rarely), whereas only 52.0% (n=78) of CP were able to reach the same swallowing functional level. The gene discussed is CP; the disease is COVID-19.