The White House on Thursday launched an “inchoate” investigation into the benefits of sunlight and moisture to mitigate the threat of coronavirus at times when the president Donald trump encourages states to resume economic activities.
Previous studies have found no convincing evidence that the warm temperatures and increased humidity of spring and summer contribute to reducing the spread of the virus.
However, William Bryan of the Department of Homeland Security said during a press conference at the White House that there are “incipient results” of new research indicating that sunlight has a powerful virus-killing effect on surfaces and in the air. He said that scientists have noticed a similar effect with higher temperatures and higher humidity. A Maryland biocontainment laboratory has been testing the virus since February, Bryan said.
“The virus dies much faster simply by exposure to higher temperatures and simple exposure to moisture,” he added.
Bryan noted that having more knowledge about this could help governors decide how and when to open up their state’s economies. However, he stressed that the results of the light and heat studies do not replace the recommendations for social distancing.
Trump, who has constantly searched for hopeful news related to virus containment, was questioned whether it would be dangerous to make people believe they would be safe if they go out to sunbathe, considering that many people have died in Florida.
“I hope people enjoy the sun. And if that has any impact, great, “replied Trump. “It is just a suggestion of a brilliant laboratory by a very, very intelligent man, perhaps brilliant.”
“I am here to present ideas, because we want ideas to eliminate this thing. And if the heat is good, and the sunlight is good, it seems fabulous to me, ”said the president.
Trump noted that investigators were also examining the effects of disinfectants on the virus and wondered aloud whether it would be possible to inject them into people after claiming that the virus “wreaks havoc on the lungs, so it would be interesting to see that.” Bryan said that is not under consideration.
Scientific advisers told the White House a few days ago that there is still no reliable evidence that the summer’s heat and humidity will control the virus without continued public health measures.
– .
