Do vitamin C and zinc help prevent or cure RSV?
Based on Science
No study has looked specifically at the effects of vitamin C or zinc on an RSV infection. Some studies of respiratory infections caused by other viruses have found that taking vitamin C or zinc supplements may help reduce how long you feel sick by a small amount.
Last update July, 6 2023
Dietary supplements do not prevent or cure RSV.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that spreads through droplets, direct contact, or surfaces. There is currently no medicine that specifically treats an RSV infection.
There is no evidence that vitamin C, zinc, or other dietary supplements can “boost” or “supercharge” your immune system to keep you from getting sick with RSV or any other virus.
There is some evidence that vitamin C and zinc can help you manage symptoms of respiratory infections.
Some studies suggest taking vitamin C or zinc supplements can help reduce how long symptoms from respiratory infections last. Most studies have focused on the effects on symptoms caused by common colds, not specifically by RSV infections.
Vitamin C may slightly shorten the duration of symptoms from a viral respiratory infection, but the evidence that it actually helps you recover from an illness is not very strong.
Studies suggest zinc may slow the ability of viruses to make copies of themselves inside your body. There is some evidence that taking zinc lozenges or syrup starting on the first day of a cold can help you get over a respiratory infection faster.
It is not clear whether taking vitamin C or zinc supplements is helpful for people who already get enough of these nutrients through their diet. Supplements are likely to be most helpful for people with nutrient deficiencies.
Taking too much of a supplement can make you feel sick.
If you take zinc supplements, be sure to follow the directions on the product label.
Too much zinc can make you sick and can actually lower your immune response. Zinc can also interact with other supplements, particularly copper, and some medicines.
You should never eat or drink zinc-containing products meant for use on the skin, like calamine lotion or diaper rash cream. These products are for your skin only and can cause harm if swallowed.
Vitamin C can cause stomach aches if you take too much. It may also interact with some cancer treatments and drugs to lower cholesterol levels. It’s best to talk to a health care provider about the supplements and medicines you take.
