Analysis: the virus that causes Covid-19 is easily transmitted indoors so here's what to do to have yourself a Covid-free Christmas
When meeting family and friends over the Christmas holidays, it is very important that we know how to reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19 in the home. The virus that causes Covid-19 is readily transmitted indoors and especially in poorly ventilated settings like houses. We have created a visual guide to help people stay safe indoors over the festive period. It illustrates common settings in the home to provide useful advice, particularly in relation to ventilation, which is vital for reducing transmission of the virus.
The guide is intended to be used along with the current public health advice for ensuring a safe Christmas. It should also be remembered that, whenever possible, it is best to socialise outdoors and keep 2 metres apart from people not in your household or support bubble.
Fresh air is safer air
Because coronavirus is mainly spread through the air, it is useful to think of the virus acting like cigarette smoke. Here are some safety tips with this in mind:
· Fresh air is safer air - open doors and windows to get a flow of air through the house.
· You don't need to freeze: opening windows just a small bit (10 cm) can still make a difference.
· In the kitchen, keep the extractor fan to provide additional ventilation.
· In the bathroom, keep the window open or the extraction fan on.
· Use a portable air purifier to remove the virus from the air.
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From RTÉ Radio 1's Today with Claire Byrne, John Wenger and Orla Hegarty on the importance of good ventilation
Sorry - no singing
The virus is more easily spread when you are closer to an infected person so it is important to keep 2 metres apart from people outside of your household. Here are some other useful tips:
· Wear a mask except when eating or drinking.
· Sit as far away as possible at the Christmas dinner table from people outside your household.
· Singing is known to release a lot more virus particles than talking so no Christmas carols
· Avoid sharing utensils, dishes and glasses.
· Practice good hygiene and wash hands after dinner and going to the toilet
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From RTÉ Radio 1's Today with Claire Byrne, Orla Hegarty and Kim Roberts on how good ventilation in buildings could possibly help stop the spread of Covid-19
Finally, it is important not to spend too much time together in the same room. Break up the day by going outside or moving to a different room for a while.
We will be spending more time indoors this winter and the risk of the virus spreading is higher. This advice will help to reduce the risk significantly and allow you to enjoy a safe Christmas with your family and friends.
The science of airborne transmission
Coronavirus is present in tiny particles emitted from the mouth when an infected person is talking, singing, coughing or sneezing. These tiny particles do not fall to the ground, but remain suspended in the air as aerosols for up to several hours. Airborne transmission occurs when these virus-containing aerosols are inhaled by another person.
READ: Open the windows! A guide to airing your house and Covid-19
READ: Why airborne transmission of Covid-19 will increase this winter
Airborne transmission is very important indoors, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces where levels of the virus can spread throughout the room and build up over time. Under these conditions, there is no safe distance from an infected person and all those present are at increased risk of infection.
Airborne transmission is by far the most plausible way in which the virus is transmitted during "superspreading events", where one infected person (frequently asymptomatic) spreads the virus to many others. Airborne transmission of the virus can be greatly reduced by ensuring that there is sufficient ventilation to clear the air.
The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or reflect the views of RTÉ
