Can sun exposure kill the COVID-1 virus in the body?
Many people think or get inaccurate information about the benefits of sunbathing. The main purpose of sunbathing is not to kill the virus in the body, but to help increase our immune system.
Exposure to ultraviolet B radiation (UVB) from sunlight is the right wave to get vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). UVB contains pro-vitamin D3 which will be converted into vitamin D3 when it meets cholesterol (7-dehydrocholesterol) in the skin. This vitamin D3 will be a source of immunity.
When is the right time to sunbathe?
The best time is before 10:00 am for 10-15 minutes. The more skin surface is exposed to direct sunlight, the better because the more pro-vitamin D3 is absorbed. If the sun exposure is longer than the recommended duration, apply sunscreen after more than 10-15 minutes. Try the shadow formed from exposure to sunlight does not exceed our height to get the maximum formation of vitamin D.
Source:
- Wacker, M., & Holick, M. F. (2013), Sunlight and Vitamin D: A global perspective for health. Dermatoendocrinology, 5(1), 51-108. https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.24494
- Working Group of the Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society; Endocrine Society of Australia, Osteoporosis Australia. Vitamin D and adult bone health in Australia and New Zealand: a position statement. Med J Aust. 2005;182(6):281-285.
