Report reaffirms benefits of Vitamin D supplements for majority of people

The Department of Health must develop a strategy to increase the knowledge and encourage use of Vitamin D to protect our population in the context of Covid-19 and other illnesses, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Colm Burke was speaking following the publication of a report addressing Vitamin D deficiency as a public health measure in Ireland, which was carried out by the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health, of which he is a member.

The Deputy who is Fine Gael spokesperson on Health, said: “I welcome the recommendations contained in this report, which was based on evidence provided to the Committee by the Covit-D Consortium of doctors.

“Vitamin D is known to assist the immune system in fighting harmful bacteria and viruses, and reduce the risk of acute respiratory infection (ARI). The positive role that Vitamin D can play in the fight against Covid-19 has also been highlighted by several studies and experts over the last year.

“Crucially, the report recommends that daily vitamin D supplements should be taken by the majority of people as a public health measure to reduce respiratory and other illnesses.

“The committee was also of the view that people attending Covid-19 test centres should be provided with vitamin D supplements when they attend for their test, for the duration of the pandemic. An ‘opt out’ system for the supplement for people in nursing homes, prisons and health care workers is also recommended.

“I have previously called for a widespread public information campaign from the HSE on the use and benefits of Vitamin D supplements, and I am happy that this has been recommended by the Committee.”