This present invention relates to the use of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) for treating and reducing the negative effects of respiratory virus including coronaviruses and particularly the novel coronavirus-19 (COVID-19). Notably, the eicosapentaenoic acid in the free fatty acid (EPA-FFA) form has a purity of at least has a purity of at least 90%, preferably 95% and more preferably at least 99%. Specifically, the EPA-FFA exhibits a reduction of expressed interleukins, such as IL-6, reduction in D-dimers and a reduction relating to the release of AA.
