Research finds wearing masks outdoors can prevent coronavirus exposure, especially in breezy conditions.
When the wind blows the coronavirus travels faster and longer distances than in calm conditions, according to scientists in India. Many already assumed this about COVID-19 spread in the wind, but a study proves it spread through a computer model.
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Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay looked at the vortices emanating from coughing by modeling their turbulent flow.
They looked at how the cough jets out in breezy conditions versus calm conditions found indoors.
The authors concluded that the smaller droplet particles containing infectious pathogens have a longer residence time in the air and can travel a longer distance. Also, these small droplets are least affected by gravity or inertia and merely follow the ambient airflow.
The simulations show even a light breeze of about 5 mph extends effective social distancing by around 20%, from 3-6 feet to 3.6-7.2 feet, depending on cough strength.
At 9-11 mph, spreading of the virus increases in distance and duration.
“The study is significant in that it points to the increased infection risk that coughing in the same direction as the wind could bring about,” co-author Amit Agrawal said. “Based on the results, we recommend wearing masks outdoors, particularly in breezy conditions.”
Other guidelines, such as coughing in an elbow or turning the face away while coughing, should be followed to reduce transmission when socializing outdoors.