Influenza and Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation
2008
Critique of Vitamin D and Influenza Association
Commentary
Author Information
Author(s): Lewis J Radonovich, Richard A Martinello, Michael Hodgson, Donald K Milton, Edward Nardell
Primary Institution: North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System
Hypothesis
Is Vitamin D significantly associated with the incidence of human influenza infection?
Conclusion
The assertion that UVGI stimulates vitamin D production and affects influenza incidence is not biologically plausible.
Supporting Evidence
- UVGI does not produce significant vitamin D because it uses short wave UV light.
- Studies claiming UVGI helps with flu are based on flawed designs.
- UVGI is designed to disinfect air, not to irradiate skin for vitamin D production.
Takeaway
The idea that UV light can help make vitamin D and prevent flu is wrong because the type of UV used in hospitals doesn't work that way.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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