Multi-Level Immune Support by Vitamins C and D during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic

Abstract

Vitamins C and D have well-known immune supportive roles, with deficiencies in both vitamins predisposing to increased risk and severity of respiratory infections. Numerous studies have indicated that administration of these vitamins, particularly to people who are deficient, can decrease the risk and severity of respiratory infections. This has stimulated an interest in the potential efficacy of these vitamins in people with novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection and its more severe disease (COVID-19). In this overview, we highlight the current research evidence around the multiple levels of immune support provided by vitamins C and D in the context of general respiratory infections and with a focus on the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. These include: prevention of infection; attenuating infection symptoms and severity; adjunctive therapy for severe disease; attenuating ongoing sequelae (long COVID); and immunisation support. Although some of these topics have not yet been investigated in great depth concerning SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, extensive research into the role of these vitamins in general respiratory infections has highlighted directions for future research in the current pandemic.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; immune support; immunisation; long COVID; pneumonia; sepsis; vitamin C; vitamin D.

Figure 1

Vitamin C requirements along the spectrum of illness. Routs of administration and doses are those recommended or typically used. ICU, intensive care unit; IV, intravenous.