Vitamin D deficiency as a factor for immunity stimulation and lower risk of acute respiratory infections and COVID-19

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the efforts of many researchers around the world are aimed at finding preventive and prophylactic measures as well as therapeutic agents against SARS-CoV-2. Recent studies have showed that vitamin D deficiency could be one of many factors associated with the development and severity of acute respiratory infections, and vitamin D could be used for prevention and treatment of these patients. This review summarizes data about the role of vitamin D in the pathogenesis and prevention of respiratory viral infections, including new coronavirus infection as well as mechanisms for reducing the risk of infection with vitamin D therapy. Probably, this review will be of interest for endocrinologists and other specialists.