The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the new beta-coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The virus has spread worldwide causing a pandemic with millions of infected. The adverse outcome is associated with advanced age and pre-existing conditions such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease. There is a heterogeneous host response to SARS-CoV-2 infection ranging from asymptomatic to severe pneumonia that requires hospitalization and admission in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The host genetic background might influence the outcome and the risk of developing severe COVID-19.