and posted in Technology

A Japanese supercomputer showed that humidity can have a significant effect on limiting the spread of virus particles, indicating an increased risk of infection with the emerging coronavirus in dry indoor places during the winter.

The results indicate that using humidity control devices may help reduce infection during times when windows cannot be opened for ventilation, according to a study published, Tuesday, by the Riken Research Institute and Kobe University.

The researchers used the supercomputer “Fujaco” to simulate the emission and flow of virus-like particles from infected people in a variety of closed spaces.

The simulations showed that air humidity of less than 30 percent resulted in more than double the amount of volatile particles compared to humidity levels of 60 percent or more.

The study also indicated that face shields are not as effective as masks in preventing the spread of spray.

There is a growing consensus among health experts that the Corona virus can spread through the air, and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revised its guidelines this month to say that the virus can remain in the air for hours.

The research team at the Rakeen Institute was used by the Fugaco supercomputer to simulate infection conditions in trains, workplaces and classrooms.

It is reported that simulations have shown that opening windows in passenger trains can increase ventilation by 2-3 times, reducing the concentration of surrounding microbes.

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