biostudies-literatureUnknown2(1)Quinn EK<h4>Background</h4>The "infodemic" accompanying the SARS-CoV-2 virus pandemic has the potential to increase avoidable spread as well as engagement in risky health behaviors. Although social media platforms, such as YouTube, can be an inexpensive and effective method of sharing accurate health information, inaccurate and misleading information shared on YouTube can be dangerous for viewers. The confusing nature of data and claims surrounding the benefits of vitamin D, particularly in the prevention or cure of COVID-19, influences both viewers and the general "immune boosting" commercial interest.<h4>Objective</h4>The aim of this study was to ascertain how information on vitamin D and COVID-19 was presented on YouTube in 2020.<h4>Methods</h4>YouTube video results for the search terms "COVID,JMIR infodemiologye32452https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC8924908biostudies-literatureCOVID-19 and Vitamin D Misinformation on YouTube: Content Analysis.PMC8924908Ford-Sahibzada CAMarcon ARQuinn EKFenton SFazel SSHarper ACaulfield TPeters CEfalseCOVID-19 and Vitamin D Misinformation on YouTube: Content Analysis.<h4>Background</h4>The "infodemic" accompanying the SARS-CoV-2 virus pandemic has the potential to increase avoidable spread as well as engagement in risky health behaviors. Although social media platforms, such as YouTube, can be an inexpensive and effective method of sharing accurate health information, inaccurate and misleading information shared on YouTube can be dangerous for viewers. The confusing nature of data and claims surrounding the benefits of vitamin D, particularly in the prevention or cure of COVID-19, influences both viewers and the general "immune boosting" commercial interest.<h4>Objective</h4>The aim of this study was to ascertain how information on vitamin D and COVID-19 was presented on YouTube in 2020.<h4>Methods</h4>YouTube video results for the search terms "COVID,2022-01-01T00:00:00Z2022 Jan-Jun2026-03-18T13:18:29.422Z2025-04-06T18:04:58.437ZS-EPMC89249083531001410.2196/32452