Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin D (ergocalciferol) has attracted interest for its potential role in supporting immune function, including in the context of influenza. Several observational studies have shown that individuals with low vitamin D levels may have an increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, including influenza. The biological plausibility lies in vitamin D’s role in modulating innate and adaptive immune responses, such as enhancing the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages and decreasing inflammation. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining vitamin D supplementation specifically for prevention or treatment of influenza have yielded mixed results. Some studies suggest a modest reduction in the risk of acute respiratory infections with vitamin D supplementation, particularly in individuals who are deficient, but results are inconsistent when focusing specifically on influenza. Meta-analyses generally indicate a small protective effect against respiratory tract infections, but the evidence is not strong or specific enough to firmly recommend vitamin D as a treatment or preventive measure for influenza in the general population. Overall, while there is some scientific rationale and modest supportive evidence, the use of vitamin D (ergocalciferol) for influenza is not robustly validated by high-quality clinical trials. Current guidelines do not endorse vitamin D supplementation specifically for influenza prevention or treatment unless there is an underlying deficiency.

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