Department of Health should publish guidance on Vitamin D supplements in context of Covid-19

The Department of Health should consider updating guidance on Vitamin D supplements after experts suggested it can reduce the severity of infection from Covid-19, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Colm Burke, Fine Gael’s Health Spokesman, said, “There is increasing evidence to suggest that a person with a Vitamin D deficiency has less defences in place if they contract Covid-19. Vitamin D deficiency common in Ireland, particularly amongst older adults.

“Several recent studies suggest that Vitamin D supplements can potentially reduce the severity of Covid-19 infection. In a study by the Irish Medical Journal last year, experts recommended that all hospital inpatients, nursing home residents and community-dwelling older adults receive vitamin D at a minimum daily dose of 20 micrograms per day. It also recommended Vitamin D supplements for other vulnerable groups in order to mitigate the public health risks associated with Covid-19 infection.

“The UK government is currently providing a free 4-month supply of daily vitamin D supplements for residents in residential and nursing care homes in England to help support their general health, in particular, bone and muscle health.

“We also heard a medical expert on radio this morning discuss the potential benefits of Vitamin D supplementation in the context of Covid-19, saying that it was beneficial for both adults and children.

“The Department of Health published new advice in November advising that adults aged 65 and older should take a vitamin D supplement for bone and muscle health.

“However, I would call on the Department to publish guidance in the context of Covid-19, with recommendations on intake for all ages.

“By now we are all aware of the measures we must take to protect ourselves and others from Covid-19. And while the priority remains the successful distribution of the vaccine, taking Vitamin D supplements can only help bolster the population’s defences further.

“I would also reiterate my call for widespread public information campaign on the potential use and benefits of Vitamin D supplements is needed given the important role Vitamin D plays in supporting the immune system and fighting infection,” Deputy Burke concluded.