Scientists have found a link between lower-than-average levels of vitamin D and high numbers of COVID-19 cases and mortality rates across 20 European countries.
The research, led by Dr Lee Smith of Cambridgeshire and Essex-based Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) and Petre Cristian Ilie, lead urologist at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King's Lynn, is published in the journal Aging Clinical and Experimental Research.
The highest average levels of vitamin D are found in northern Europe, due to the consumption of cod liver oil and vitamin D supplements, and possibly less sun avoidance than in southern Europe.
Dr Lee Smith, reader in physical activity and public health at ARU, said: "Vitamin D has been shown to protect against acute respiratory infections, and older adults, the group most deficient in vitamin D, are also the ones most seriously affected by Covid-19."
Latest Stories
-
M.A.T.R.I.A.R.C.H: Nurturing Our Tracks
2 hours -
Unwanted history: Ghana’s AFCON failure a dark chapter for Otto Addo and the Black Stars
4 hours -
Don’t vote for politicians who will collapse indigenous businesses – Dr Nduom tells Ghanaians
5 hours -
Gospel musician empowers Asamankese graduates with sewing machines, hair dryers
7 hours -
AFCON 2025Q: Ghana fail to qualify for the first time in 20 years after 1-1 draw in Angola
8 hours -
Vakpo SHS receives new 6-seater water closet facility
8 hours -
NPP committed to developing North Tongu – Assistant North Tongu Secretary
8 hours -
NCCE denies media report on extremists targeting 2024 elections
8 hours -
Olympic Lyon relegated to Lig 2
8 hours -
EC to reprint ballot papers for Ahafo, Volta regions over incorrect serial numbers
9 hours -
CDEPP Founder receives inaugural UGSoL Legends Award
9 hours -
Mahama promises year-round irrigation to revive cocoa farming
9 hours -
Election 2024: Many Ghanaians aren’t willing to vote – Ayariga
9 hours -
Let’s focus on early childhood education – PPP PC for KEEA urges politicians
10 hours -
Girls in ICT training in Ashanti Region showcases transformative power of technology
10 hours