Deximune - Avoid Uvb-Rays

[Barquentine]

The explanatory leaflet that came with Deximune which a friend is taking says "...you must not be exposed to any UVB-rays or phototherapy during treatment."
It does not explain what UVB-rays means.
She hasn't been out of the house for weeks scared that it means sunlight. I keep telling her it can't mean the weak sunlight we get in the UK, it must mean strong sunshine or maybe sunbeds, but she has even closed her curtains at home now.
Can anyone confirm what 'UVB-rays' means? I need to convince her it's safe to go out.

[sandyRoe]

If your friend wore long sleeved tops, slacks, or jeans, and a sun hat, I'm sure she'd be OK going out.
The leaflet probably meant prolonged exposure to UBV rays. That's Ultra Violet B.

[sandyRoe]

Hopefully, there'll be more knowledgeable people along soon.

[Cloverjo]

I think SandyRoe is correct. She can go outside but should cover up. I found this:

Deximune suppresses your immune system. This increases your risk of developing cancers, particularly of the skin and lymphoid system. You should limit your exposure to sunlight and UV light by:
Wearing appropriate protective clothing
Often applying a sunscreen with a high protection factor.

[1ozzy]

I think both Sandy and Clover are correct, Wear clothing that covers and a broad brimmed hat, no worries. Also take into account the time of the day.

"UVB intensity varies by season, location and time of day. As a general rule, the highest levels of UVB reach the UK between the hours of 10am and 4pm between April and October".

http://www.careinthesun.org/uv-rays

[1ozzy]

My apologies but that reminded me of and old song.

"Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun".

[Barquentine]

Thanks for all replies - very helpful.

[1ozzy]

""Can anyone confirm what 'UVB-rays' means? I need to convince her it's safe to go out.""

This site explains the difference between Uva and Uvb.

http://www.patient.co.uk/health/preventing-skin-cancer.

There are two main types of damaging ultraviolet (UV) sunlight: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, damaging the middle layer (the dermis). The dermis contains the elastic tissues that keep the skin stretchy. UVA rays therefore have the effect of ageing the skin and causing wrinkles. UVB rays are absorbed by the top layer of skin (the epidermis). This causes sun tanning but also burning.

So if your friend doesn't go red or get a tan, all good.