Indoor temperature and relative humidity in hospitals: workplace considerations during the novel coronavirus pandemic
Sadeq A. Quraishi, Lorenzo Berra, Ala Nozari
Abstract
The link between seasonal variation and viral outbreaks is a topic of much debate.1 It is postulated that cold temperatures increase viral half-lives and that low relative humidity (RH) adversely influences natural processes that otherwise lead to viral inactivation.2 3 As such, there is a growing interest in whether indoor temperature and RH may be modifiable risk factors for aerial transmission of viruses. Indeed, preclinical studies and observational data suggest that high temperature as well as RH in the 40%–60% range may reduce transmission of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).4 5 And although high humidity has been shown to reduce transmission of various other aerosolised …
Topics & Concepts
PandemicCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakCoronavirusRelative humidityHumidityEnvironmental scienceEnvironmental healthBetacoronavirusVirologyMedicineMeteorologyGeographyOutbreakPathologyInfectious disease (medical specialty)DiseaseInfection Control and VentilationClimate Change and Health ImpactsCOVID-19 epidemiological studies