The early prominence of activated CD38+HLA-DR+ and CD38+PD-1+ CD8+ T cells is associated with survival; the loss of expansion of SARS-CoV-2-specific immunity and the prolonged presence of CD38+HLA-DR+ and CD38+PD-1+ CD8+ T cells are characteristics of fatal COVID-19. This evidence concerns the gene PDCD1 and COVID-19.