Keep windows, doors open to cut coronavirus risk: Experts

Singapore: To block the spread of coronavirus, which has claimed over 1,000 lives in China, the health experts are asking people to keep windows and doors open.

According to Tan Chorh Chuan, Chief Health Scientist in Singapore, people should switch off air-conditioner and breath fresh air to reduce the chances of infection. The likelihood of survival of virus outdoors was lower, Chuan added.

While many unknowns remain about coronavirus, earlier studies suggest that it thrived in cool, dry climates, reports The Strait Times.

Pointing to several research on survival of viruses after the outbreak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (Sars) in 2003, he said, “Most studies indicated they don’t survive in hot (over 30 degree C), humid environments (humidity levels of over 80 per cent).”

The virus that caused Sars and coronavirus belonged to the same family, the experts said.

Associate Professor Hsu Li Yang of the National University of Singapore said, “Air-conditioning is something that can’t be helped in Singapore, especially during summer. But enclosed spaces, which are less humid and cooler, could help spread respiratory diseases.”

In India, doctors have suggested avoidance of close contact with people with symptoms of illness, like cough and runny nose.

“To prevent spread of coronavirus, one must observe good personal hygiene, wash hands frequently with soap, keep 3 feet distance from a person who is sneezing or coughing,” said Suranjeet Chatterjee, Senior Consultant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Delhi.

People should also avoid contact with animals, consumption of raw/undercooked meat, travel to farms, animal markets or slaughter spots.

The coronavirus outbreak has been declared a public health emergency by the WHO.

Chinese health authorities on Tuesday reported the coronavirus toll at 1,016 with 42,638 infected cases. The National Health Commission of China said 7,333 serious cases had been reported as of Monday midnight. 3,996 people were discharged, it added.

IANS