Helioterapia en tiempos de COVID-19

Since 2020, the world community has experienced the COVID-19 pandemic that affects practically all countries. From the high incidence, complications and mortality, health systems have collapsed. Therapeutic options are sought that contribute to a positive evolution of the patient, from drug combinations to the manufacture of a still very limited number of vaccines. Preventive and management strategies are needed for a large number of survivors who are left with sequelae. Heliotherapy has described mechanisms that produce immunomodulation. The available literature was reviewed, with emphasis on the period 2016-2021 with the aim of identifying studies that provide information on the biological and therapeutic effects of sunlight that could be useful in the prevention and rehabilitation of the sequelae of COVID-19. To fulfill this purpose, different electronic databases were used (MedLine, Enbase, Lilacs, SciELO, PubMed and Virtual Health Library). At least 6 mechanisms were identified by which Heliotherapy could make a positive contribution to the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Factors that may influence the results were identified. The proposal of an exposure scheme was made, with minimum and safe doses.