Can zinc really prevent COVID-19?

In this video, we provide a scientific-based approach to determining whether or not zinc can prevent COVID-19. Zinc is rumoured to be a preventive measure against COVID-19 when supplemented. The video explores the role of zinc in the immune system, hypothesized mechanisms for zinc operation in relation to COVID-19, and current studies regarding zinc therapy in COVID-19 patients.

This video is targeted towards a general audience, particularly those who utilize social media; preventative measures (that are often not backed up by science) circulate on these platforms.

This video was made by McMaster University Demystifying Medicine Students: Gurjit Singh Gill, Prabhdeep Gill, Zarin Hossain, Kiarash Forootan.

Copyright McMaster University 2021.


Music: https://www.vyond.com/

References:
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Finzi, E. (2020). Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 with high dose oral zinc salts: A report on four patients. International Journal of Infectious Diseases, 99, 307–309. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijid.2020.0...

Joachimiak, M. P. (2021). Zinc against COVID-19? Symptom surveillance and deficiency risk groups. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 15(1), e0008895. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd....

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Wessels, I., Rolles, B., & Rink, L. (2020). The Potential Impact of Zinc Supplementation on COVID-19 Pathogenesis. Frontiers in Immunology, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2020.01712