Low plasma levels of Vitamin D has emerged as an independent risk factor for COVID-19 infection and hospitalization in a large, population-based study. Participants positive for COVID-19 were 50% more likely to have low versus normal levels in a multivariate analysis.

The study published online on July 23, 2020, in the FEBSPRESS science publishing by scientists, “makes a compelling case for possibly screening Vitamin D levels for judging the risk of COVID infection and hospitalization” said Dr. Wayne Jonas, a practicing family physician and executive director of Samueli Integrative Health Programs in an interview with Medscape Medical News.  “Given that Vitamin D is largely safe, such a study could be done quickly on healthy people with minimal risk of harm” he added.

So, what does it all mean? The bottom line, this is a limited study however low plasma levels appear to be an independent risk factor for COVID-19 infection and hospitalization. It might be a prudent step to discuss these findings with your attending physicians and Medical Director. A simple blood test to evaluate Vitamin D levels may assist in identifying your highest risk residents! Talk to your team, meet with the QAPI committee, initiate a risk/benefit analysis, and take your vitamins! Stay well, stay safe, and stay tuned!