DOES SUNLIGHT DEFEAT VIRUSES?

Ever since a previously unknown coronavirus began spreading around the globe in early 2020, researchers have feverishly been looking for a cure for COVID-19. As they raced to develop a vaccine and identify therapeutic agents, one question in particular had been at the forefront of their minds: Why do some people have a more difficult experience with the virus than others? The latest studies indicate sunlight plays an important role in the immune defense against viral diseases, as it’s mainly responsible for the production of vitamin D in the body. And it is precisely this vitamin that seems to have a significant effect on the course of viral disease. When Indian researchers assessed the vitamin D concentration present in the bodies of corona patients, they discovered something astonishing: In test group A, which consisted of asymptomatic cases, only 32% of subjects had a deficiency.

In test group B, which consisted of people with clear symptoms and sometimes severe disease progression, the vitamin D deficiency was 97%. Since not all people can spend enough time in sunlight in their everyday life to regulate their vitamin D balance naturally, the Indian study concluded by recommending distribution of vitamin D supplements to particularly vulnerable population groups. There is no conclusive evidence that supplementation can decrease the duration or severity of the disease, but statistically those with an existing D deficiency have been more likely to die of COVID than those with a normal level. The ideal delivery pathway is exposure to sunlight rather than reliance on supplements, and as little as 10 minutes per day several times a week can make a difference. (While sunlight itself kills viruses and bacteria, this effect can’t be achieved inside the body.)