Japan supercomputer shows humidity affects aerosol spread of coronavirus

[LiberalArkie]

TOKYO (Reuters) - A Japanese supercomputer showed that humidity can have a large effect on the dispersion of virus particles, pointing to heightened coronavirus contagion risks in dry, indoor conditions during the winter months.

The finding suggests that the use of humidifiers may help limit infections during times when window ventilation is not possible, according to a study released on Tuesday by research giant Riken and Kobe University.

The researchers used the Fugaku supercomputer to model the emission and flow of virus-like particles from infected people in a variety of indoor environments.

Air humidity of lower than 30% resulted in more than double the amount of aerosolised particles compared to levels of 60% or higher, the simulations showed.

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https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-japan-supercompute-idUSKBN26Z0PI

[Arkansas Granny]

1. Well, I'm off to shop for a room humidifier for my office at work.

This seems like a small enough investment, if it works, not to mention that it's so dry during the winter months anyway that I'm constantly getting shocked from static electricity. This might alleviate that problem, as well.

[nolabear]

2. Well I've never been happier to live in rain drenched Seattle.