Studies have indicated that a robust immune response across different cell types is critical in recovery from coronavirus disease 2019. Several studies have shown the vital importance of different micronutrients in the interactions between the host immune system and viruses, including the COVID 19 virus. Micronutrients like zinc, vitamins A, C, D, etc.,play a critical role in the coordinated recruitment of innate and adaptive immune responses to viral infections, especially in regulating pro-and anti-inflammatory host responses.  Besides, insufficient amounts of micronutrients weaken the immune system in fighting against viral infections and contribute to the development of more virulent strains through changes in the genetic makeup of the viral genome. Micronutrient (zinc, vitamin A, C, D, etc.) interventions have shown a promising effect in targeting the immune system impairments seen in the elderly and improve infection-related morbidity and mortality. Studies have shown that the administration of zinc and vitamin A significantly reduced the incidence of pneumonia in children, and oral zinc supplementation could shorten the duration of symptoms of respiratory infection. Combining micronutrient supplementation in adults may also reduce antibiotic usage and causes a higher post-vaccination immune response. 

The association of unpredictable occurrence of novel viralpathogens combined with reduced host immunity and micronutrient deficiency poses a twofold threat to human health.Micronutrient deficiency contributes to the emergence of more virulent strains. Micronutrient deficiency and immune response dysfunction may contribute to the morbidity of COVID 19 infection. Micronutrients play a role in the recruitment of immune responses to viral infections. 

Resources: 1. Gorji A, Ghadiri MK. Nutrition. 2021; 82:111047.