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If UV rays can kill viruses, is wearing sunblock a bad idea during the coronavirus pandemic?

There are three types of UV light that come from the sun: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C, with almost all the UV radiation that reaches the earth’s surface being UV-A or UV-B. UV-C is what can act as a disinfectant at medical facilities using sophisticated technology, operation systems, safety protocols, and expertise in this area. There is no evidence that sun exposure will kill the coronavirus. We continue to recommend sunscreen to protect oneself from the harmful effects of sun exposure on the skin.

Answered by Dr. Molly Fleece, MD.

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