Sunlight and Herpes

What's the connection? Sunlight can make you breakout, even if you have Genital HSV2 and your unit isn't getting direct sunlight?

If it's the case that sunlight hitting any part of your body can cause an outbreak in your genitals, then how much sunlight will trigger that?

Why does sunlight trigger outbreaks?

Since being in the sun is a drain on your immune system.

This is a serious concern. I believe that my most recent outbreak was triggered by exposure to sunlight. 

My understanding is that sunlight UV light rays does DNA damage/alteration that could trigger an outbreak. Such a big bummer as it seems like I won't be enjoying sunny days again. Also I am noticing that my skin is getting more sensitive to any amount of sunlight exposure and I immediately feel that burning sensation even if I'm wearing sunblock. 

@mr_hopp Any idea/reference on how the sunlight is a drain for the immune system? 

I have genital hsv 1 and im a mailman in florida =/ lol . i do feel a bit more fatigued after a day in the sun than i used to. Not sure if its because the virus or the virus playing with my emotions 

Herpes shouldn't be the culprit as far as fatiguing you, @RaymondPlacido ... It just takes a lot out of you being in the sun for so long, I'd imagine! So that's the theory around sunlight and herpes in general. Not that you need to be a vampire and avoid the sun at all costs, but prolonged sunlight exposure drains anyone, herpes or not. And when you're drained, then there are less defenses to ward off a herpes outbreak, especially closer to your initial infection (after 6 months to a year and beyond, the immune system can handle HSV better). 

Just wanted to say, I am HSV1 pos, usually oral.  Strong sun can cause my symptoms to start to rise up- but when I say strong sun, I mean when I am on vacation sitting on the beach for HOURS in direct sun. Firstly, that is not good in general- wear sunscreen people!  Using an SPF 50 chap stick on my lips(and down a little as my ob's tend to crop up between my chin and lip)  repeatedly throughout my exposure stopped the feelings of symptoms.  Wherever you are prone to the OB, take extra care of...and if it's a genital(or other non-exposed area) use and reuse proper sunscreen at all times. Also good to fight skin cancer which is on the rise.    Otherwise, some time daily to absorb some vitamin D is good for the immune system.  Just do it safely.