Scientists have estimated the danger of contracting coronavirus on the beach and in the pool
The organization of safe beach holidays in the “post-viral era” are engaged in many countries where the swimming season begins. In Italy, the initiative of installing plexiglass booths was discussed, in Greece, the police control social distance on the beach with drones, etc.
In Spain We have come to the “beach” question from the point of view of science. Specialists of the Supreme Council for Scientific Research analyzed the risk of contracting COVID-19 on the beach, at sea, in the pool, SPA-center.
Scientists have found that exposure to the virus from surfaces in all of these recreations is "very unlikely."
According to them, disinfectants, which are used to prevent microbial contamination in pools and around them, are enough to inactivate the virus. Antiseptics and aerosols recommended for use in SPA-complexes work in a similar way.
Even more predictable is the fate of the virus in rooms with high temperatures (more than 60 oC): saunas, steam baths, hammams. According to Spanish scientists, the survival of the virus in these areas is “extremely unlikely”.
In the case of seawater, the CSIC believes that the dilution effect and the high concentration of salt contribute to the destruction of COVID-19. Swimming in sea water strengthens human immunity.
Spanish experts have dispelled myths about the need to disinfect sand on the beach. This will damage the environment, but the sea itself, ultraviolet light, high temperatures will kill the “contagion” better than any disinfectant.
Social distancing rules should apply on the beach, as in any other public space, since the main route of transmission of the virus is airborne.
If vacationers conscientiously observe social distance, then no additional restrictions on their stay on the beach (masks, gloves) will not be required.
Mikhail Lebedev, an expert at the Center for Molecular Diagnostics of the CMD Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor, also considers the minimum probability of contracting the coronavirus by contact in hot weather in open water.
According to him, when in open water, you need to think more about the risks of bacterial or parasitic infection.
Source: atorus