- Many individuals and businesses struggle with keeping their water bodies fresh and free of viruses and algae. According to koi-pond-guide.com, ultraviolet light for prolonged periods can render some waterborne viruses "microbiologically dead by penetrating the cell wall and affecting the microorganism's DNA such that it is unable to reproduce."
- Other studies show that some dormant viral cells can actually be activated by ultraviolet light, which is essentially serving as a trigger. According to Randall Hicks, associate professor and head of the University of Minnesota Duluth's Department of Biology, "UV light at the earth's surface as a result of thinning of the ozone layer... can also cause dormant viruses to become active."
- In certain circumstances, such as with the single-stranded DNA parvovirus H-1, ultraviolet radiation was found to be directly mutagenic, resulting in an altered form of the virus., according to the EMBO Journal.
- Ultraviolet light is often used as a practical way to protect against certain viruses. Products for sale to the public include UV ionic air purifiers, UV carbon air cleaners and UV light systems.
- Organizations like Sea-Grant continue to fund scientists such as marine biologists as they study freshwater and saltwater habitats in an effort to get a more accurate picture of the effect UV light has on new and different viruses.
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