COVID has everyone wondering what additional steps they can take to protect themselves and their families. Here’s something you may not have thought of to fight against COVID: Humidity.
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What is relative humidity?
Relative humidity is a percentage that represents how much water vapor is in the air compared to the total amount of water vapor it can have. A relative humidity of 40 to 60 percent is ideal for a home, keeping the house comfortable and safe to be in.
According to a recent study, the Coronavirus does not stay suspended in the air as long when the relative humidity level is near 60%. Winter brings cold, dry air, which gives viruses such as COVID and Influenza the ability to stay stable for longer periods of time.
How humidity reduces the spread of COVID
When we breathe, talk, cough, or sneeze, respiratory droplets are emitted. These droplets can vary in size. The larger droplets typically fall to the ground. However, when the humidity is lower, these larger droplets evaporate into smaller droplets called aerosols. Aerosols remain in the air for longer periods of time and have the capability to travel farther in the air—meaning they are able to move past the six feet we distance ourselves with.
This is why higher humidity is an extra level of protection that we need. Higher humidity keeps the respiratory droplets large and keeps them from becoming smaller aerosols that stay in the air longer.
Too much of a good thing
Higher humidity is a needed protection against the Coronavirus in homes, offices, and other indoor facilities. However, too much can hurt more than it helps. Having a relative humidity that is too high creates the perfect conditions for mold and bacteria growth. Keep your home in the range of 40 to 60 percent in order to maintain safe living conditions.
How to check humidity levels
Checking the humidity level in your home can be easy. You can use a hygrometer, which measures relative humidity in your home. These are easily found at your local big-box or hardware stores. Another easy way to tell if your humidity is at the right level is to look for signs in your home.
Signs your humidity is too high
- Your windows are fogging up and have moisture on them.
- You have water stains on your ceiling frequently.
- You notice mold or mildew growth in your home.
Signs your humidity is too low
- You are getting shocked by static electricity.
- Your family frequently suffers from dry skin.
- You keep having to water your flower vases on a daily basis.
Read more about the benefits of humidifiers...
Other precautions you can take
Purchasing a humidifier for your home is just one, easy way you can protect against COVID. Another precaution you can take is to get an in-duct, Whole Home Air Purifier. This Air Purifier works to inactivate the virus using Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization to clean the air.
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