COVID-19 cases continued to spike across India. According to a report by news agency PTI, forty more cases of the COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 were recorded, with the tally of cases of the new variant across the country till December 26 rising to 109.
Thirty-six cases were detected from Gujarat, 34 from Karnataka, 14 from Goa, nine from Maharashtra, six from Kerala, four each from Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu, and two from Telangana, they said. Most of the patients are currently in home isolation, as per PTI.
There is also no increase in hospitalisation rates and COVID-19 is an incidental finding in those hospitalised due to other medical conditions. Last week, Union Health Secretary Sudhansh Pant last week had written to states and Union territories calling for requisite public health measures to be put in place and underlined the critical COVID-19 control and management strategies considering the ongoing festive season.
India saw a single-day rise of 529 cases of COVID-19, while the number of active cases of the infection was recorded at 4,093, the health ministry said on Wednesday. Three new fatalities — two from Karnataka and one from Gujarat were reported in the last 24 hours, according to the ministry’s data updated at 8 am. The JN.1 (BA.2.86.1.1), emerged in August 2023 in Luxembourg and is descendant of the BA.2.86 lineage (Pirola) of SARS COV2.
What is the Vitamin D supplements during COVID-19 infection?
Vitamin D garnered attention during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its potential role in immune function.
According to Dr. Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director & HOD, Pulmonology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad, people had this notion that taking Vitamin D supplements can protect them from getting severe COVID-19. Studies suggest that adequate levels of Vitamin D might support the immune system, potentially reducing the risk or severity of respiratory infections.
“Research has shown that Vitamin D plays a crucial role in modulating the immune response, potentially reducing inflammation and aiding in the body’s defense against infections. However, while some observational studies have hinted at an association between low Vitamin D levels and increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, conclusive evidence regarding its direct impact on COVID-19 outcomes remains inconclusive,” Dr. Jha told Financial Express.com.
It’s important to note that Vitamin D supplementation should not be considered a standalone prevention or treatment for COVID-19, he added.
“The best approach is to maintain a balanced diet, ensure adequate sun exposure, and consult with a healthcare professional regarding Vitamin D supplementation, especially if there are deficiencies or underlying health conditions,” he said.
‘Personalised medical advice is crucial’
Individual factors such as age, overall health, and existing medical conditions can significantly influence the impact of Vitamin D on one’s susceptibility to and recovery from COVID-19.
“Therefore, personalized medical advice is crucial before starting any new supplement regimen, including Vitamin D. It is also very important here to note that excess Vitamin D can lead to toxicity and even kidney failure. So, OTC vitamin D supplements should not be taken without consulting your doctor,” Dr. Jha said.
Dr Debashish Chanda, Lead Consultant, Department of Orthopedics, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram told Financial Express.com that Vitamin D3 has been studied for its potential role in supporting the immune system, and some research suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may have benefits in the context of respiratory infections, including COVID-19.
How is Vitamin D helpful during COVID-19 infection?
According to Dr. Chanda, here are ways in which vitamin D3 may be helpful:
Immune System Support: Vitamin D is known to play a crucial role in the functioning of the immune system. It helps in the production of antimicrobial peptides and modulates the immune response. Adequate vitamin D levels may contribute to a more robust immune defense against infections, including respiratory viruses.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties, and excessive inflammation is a factor in the severity of some respiratory infections. By modulating inflammatory responses, vitamin D may help mitigate the impact of respiratory illnesses.
Respiratory Health: Vitamin D is involved in the maintenance of respiratory health. Some studies have suggested a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of respiratory infections. Ensuring sufficient vitamin D levels may contribute to overall respiratory well-being.
Reducing Severity: While vitamin D3 may not prevent infection with viruses like COVID-19, several studies have explored the potential link between vitamin D status and the severity of illness. Some findings suggest that individuals with sufficient vitamin D levels may experience less severe symptoms if infected.
“It’s important to note that while there is evidence supporting the potential benefits of vitamin D, it should not be considered a sole or guaranteed preventive measure against COVID-19. Good hygiene practices, vaccination (where applicable), and following public health guidelines remain crucial in preventing the spread of the virus,” Dr. Chanda told Financial Express.com.