After over a year of dealing with a pandemic, authorities have now come to accept what many researchers have argued for over a year - that coronavirus particles can spread through the air.
The govt in a detailed advisory, has warned that while droplets fall within 2 metres from an infected person, smaller aerosol particles can be carried in the air for up to 10 metres. And this warning, has necessitated, now more than before, the need for proper ventilation.
The guidelines, prepared by the principal scientific adviser to the government, say, that in closed un-ventilated indoor spaces, droplets and aerosols can quickly become concentrated and increase the risk of transmission to people in the area.
Keeping in line with the WHO and US CDC, the Centre has shared a set of "easy to follow" guidelines on ways to improve ventilation inside homes and work spaces to lower the potential for Covid-19 transmission.
Here's a complete low down on the ways to curb aerosol and surface transmission.
The advisory states that inside our homes, the dangerous concentration of the virus can be reduced by ensuring that outdoor air flows in.
1. Avoid placing fans in a way that could cause contaminated air to flow directly to someone else.
2. Installing an exhaust fan is important, keep them running if windows and doors are shut.
3. Add an exhaust fan OR turn a pedestal fan into an exhaust fan by turning it to face outdoors
4. Air outlets with exhaust fans must be installed in homes where there are no cross-ventilation
The govt advisory says, that running ACs while keeping windows and doors shut, traps infected air inside the room, and could increase the risk of transmission from an infected carrier to others.
1. Keep windows and doors ajar while ACs are running, this helps bring in clean air and dilute virus load.
2. Add gable/exhaust fans wherever possible to maximise air circulation
3. Roof ventilators and regular filters are recommended in offices, these must be regularly cleaned or replaced.
During the pandemic getting around safely has become so much more important than getting around quickly.
1. Ensure cross flow of air in public transport vehicles
2. Keep windows open in buses and trains where possible
3. Introduce exhaust systems to improve airflow in AC buses and trains
The advisory says, that droplets emitted by an infected person can land on various surface, where they can survive for a long time.
1. Frequent cleaning of high contact points such as door handles, light switches, tables, chairs with disinfectants like bleach and phenyl.
2. When someone touches these contaminated surfaces, they must wash hands with soap, avoid touching their mouth, nose or eyes
3. People should wear a double layer mask or an N95 mask, which offers maximum protection