Abstract: The present disclosure relates to agonists of interferon alpha and beta receptor subunit 2 (IFNAR2) for use in the treatment or prevention of viral disease, particularly COVID-19. In particular embodiments, COVID-19 is associated with pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In other aspects, the subject being treated is undergoing extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation, mechanical ventilation, non-invasive ventilation, receiving oxygen therapy or receiving antiviral or steroid treatment.