UV Rays Prevent the Spread of Chickenpox

Exposure to ultraviolet rays (UV rays) can help stop the spread of chickenpox, according to researchers from the University of London.

Scientists found that the illness is less common in regions with high UV levels. Exposure to sunlight may inactivate viruses on the skin like the varicella-zoster virus, responsible for chickenpox and shingles, making it harder to spread.

Lead author of the study, Dr Phil Rice said, "No-one had considered UV as a factor before, but when I looked at the epidemiological studies they showed a good correlation between global latitude and the presence of the virus."

The study is published in the biology journal Virology.

Source: Medindia

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