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As part of efforts to combat COVID-19 this winter, three million vulnerable people in England, including the elderly and the long-term ill, will receive free vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient and helps maintain healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. There is also evidence that it could lessen the effects of the virus, with a recent study showing that there is a strong correlation between vitamin D levels and the severity of cases.
Although other measures such as contact trackingSince vaccination and self-isolation are the most effective, this could be another useful tool in the management of new and existing cases.
The body gets most of its vitamin D from direct sunlight. However, most people have spent more time indoors this year due to coronavirus measures, which means their vitamin D levels could be lower than usual.
In general, vitamin D levels drop in winter. Public Health England advises everyone, and especially older people, people who spend a lot of time indoors, and people with darker skin, to take supplements between October and March each year.
According to Health Secretary Matt Hancock, “Due to the incredible sacrifices made by the British people to control the virus, many of us have spent more time indoors this year and we may be deficient in vitamin D.”
“The government is taking steps to ensure that vulnerable people can access a free supply that will last them during the darkest winter months. This will support your overall health, keep your bones and muscles healthy, and crucially reduce the pressure on our NHS. “
The UK government has also advised that anyone who is not eligible for this program should purchase vitamin D supplements and take them in the coming months.
Additionally, the government plans to investigate the use of vitamin D as a treatment option for those who are already infected. At the moment, there is no strong evidence that it can improve symptoms, but researchers believe there could be a link.
