Key points from article :
Patients with sufficient levels of vitamin D are less likely to experience fatal complications from Covid-19.
Vitamin D sufficiency is linked to a significantly decreased level of inflammatory markers and higher blood levels of immune cells.
Study took blood samples from 235 patients admitted to hospitals with Covid-19 and measured their vitamin D levels.
Over-40s who had sufficient levels of vitamin D were 51 per cent less likely to die from the virus.
Dr Holick also published a study finding sufficient vitamin D can reduce the risk of catching Covid-19 by 54 per cent.
Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is widespread in children and adults in the US
In June, UK health officials said there is “no evidence” that vitamin D supplements can prevent or treat Covid-19.
PHE recommends individuals take vitamin D supplements to counteract the effects of remaining indoors.
Research by Boston University’s school of medicine published in PLOS ONE.
