Optical theranostics and treatment dosimetry for COVID-19 lung complications: Towards increasing the survival rate of vulnerable populations

• The progression of the COVID-19 pandemic was slowed by implemented social isolation measures and adaptation of the healthcare system. • Still, no effective treatments for severe lung complications are available for the most susceptible populations. • Optical theranostics methods can identify COVID-19 pulmonary manifestations and provide automated and real-time control of the treatment dosimetry. • Optical methods are flexible for combination with existing medical devices and drug repurposing protocols. • Implementation of reliable and safe theranostics methods requires strong collaboration among researchers, industry and medical institutions.