I have been wondering why there are so few studies that measure the concentration of coronavirus in the air, especially outdoor studies, so I started searching for reliable scientific information.
To my surprise, I found that the concentration of viruses outdoors is relatively high. I found two studies that show the ratio of the viral load from indoor to outdoor at 1:5 to 1:10 (see below). Both studies are not related to the coronavirus.
It is known that viruses morphologically adapt in different situations (atmospheric pressure, sunlight, temperature), influencing infectivity. The interaction with bacteria and chemicals in the air (e.g., sulfur dioxide) also plays a role. Droplet size and viral load are additional parameters that seem to be important.
Anyway, after reading these papers it makes more sense to me wearing a mask outdoors (under certain conditions).
However, I would like to see scientists investigate these effects more often and more precisely, or do such studies already exist?
Assembly, stability and dynamics of virus capsids
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003986112003839?via%3Dihub
Total Virus and Bacteria Concentrations in Indoor and Outdoor Air
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4515362/
Year-Long Rhinovirus Infection is Influenced by Atmospheric Conditions, Outdoor Air Virus Presence, and Immune System-Related Genetic Polymorphisms
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12560-019-09397-x
Here is a paper that I just found this morning showing that outdoor spread of coronvirus can happen and infection may be possible:
Article Local Atmospheric Factors that enhance Air-borne Dispersion ...
This definitely justifies the importance of wearing face masks when one is outdoor
Viral load is more in indoor compare to outdoor not mesns outdoor is safe. All people should wear masks and social distence outdoor and indoor
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