Like a lot of op-eds, this one in Pop Sci is a classic example of the importance of what is NOT said. Also, my suggestion of increased sunlight exposure is more of a “in addition to”, not a “either or” situation.
What they hinted at: flu-like and respiratory infections increase in the fall and winter when most people spend more time in doors. What they *failed* to elaborate: the increased rates have a proportional correspondence to decreased sunlight.
Vitamin D and infrared light (sunlight has over 52% infrared) inhibit the major cytokines in COVID-19 pathophysiology. Taking vitamin D is helpful but not as effective as direct sun exposure.
The major cytokines in COVID-19 pathophysiology, including IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-a, responded positively to PBM therapy and opened a new window for inhibiting and managing a cytokine storm within only 3-10 days
In my opinion, there should be more emphasis on how to build yourself up for when, not if, you get an infection.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9304695/pdf/fimmu-13-929837.pdf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33340885/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLDYNoIVLmk