Scientist investigate after study found taking the supplement saw 50 per cent fall in chest infections.

Scientists are investigating a potential link between survival rates for coronavirus and levels of Vitamin D.

A ten-week trial involving 200 Covid-19 patients at the University of Granada in Spain will seek to establish if the 'sunshine vitamin' can help fight the illness.

Vitamin D is produced by exposing the skin to sunshine and is essential for a healthy immune system.

A recent study by Trinity College Dublin found adults who took Vitamin D supplements saw a 50 per cent fall in chest infections.

Dr Jenna Macciochi, of the University of Sussex, said: 'If you are deficient in Vitamin D, you are three to four times more likely to catch a cold.

'It therefore makes sense a viral respiratory infection like Covid-19 would be worse if you were Vitamin D-deficient.'