Changes in environmental factors will have an impact on human behavior. Generally, the outbreak of cold and flu will be more during the winter season. As per the observation by scientists, the spread of Sars and Covid-19 occurred in the winter. The transmission of the virus will be stable or aggressive as per the change in temperature and humidity levels. As per the statistics, people living indoors without having exposed to fresh air are prone to transmit influenza due to cold and dry air. It is worthwhile to understand the relationship between temperature and humidity.
Impact of dry air on immunity
The indoor temperature will be higher than the outdoor temperature during winters. When the cold and dry air enters the house, the indoor relative humidity will drop. A drop in humidity levels will pave the way for the travel of virus particles. The human body’s airways have a natural virus defending mechanism. However, the virus repulsion will be low due to the warm air. Exposure to dry air will also impair cell repair in the lungs. As the virus's immune response due to dry air is less, the virus spread will be fast.
What is the ideal humidity level?
If the outdoor humidity is high, the airborne virus droplets will survive on the surface for a long period of time. As per the study in mice, it was observed that 40% to 60% relative humidity is ideal for containing the spread of the virus. Hence, dehumidifiers can be installed to change indoor air quality during the winter season. There will be an efficient immune response by maintaining 50% indoor relative humidity levels.
What is a dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier will draw air from the coil. The coil temperate will be very low, and it leads to the condensation of the water vapor on the coil. The water collection bucket at the bottom of the dehumidifier will collect the drips of water.
Benefits of a dehumidifier
- Reduction of mold and mildew - If there are mold and mildew in the outdoor air, it will be purified by the dehumidifier. It will reduce the mold's development of furniture, window curtains, door curtains, and bedsheets. It will also reduce indoor dust. If you are allergic to dust, you can deploy a high-quality dehumidifier. The dehumidifier will help in reducing the allergens.
- Increased humidity levels – By keeping higher humidity levels indoors, the number of flu particles floating in the air can be decreased. If the flu particles fall on the ground, you may touch them. However, you can prevent the spread of the virus through regular washing of your hands.
- Ideal humidity levels – By installing a dehumidifier at home, you can manage humidity levels between 40% and 60%. Even though the dehumidifier may not give you absolute protection from virus, it will reduce the risk.
In addition to the maintenance of optimum humidity levels, you should also take other precautions such as hand sanitizing, social distancing, and masks to stop the spread of the virus.