Germany’s leading virologists analyse the new threat posed by the novel corona virus SARS-CoV-2 on a daily basis. How much longer will the virus have us in its grip, which is getting tighter every day? Or will it virtually disappear of its own accord once temperatures start rising sharply? Virologist Thomas Pietschmann explains why he is counting on the cool and mostly dry winter days coming to an end soon. Because both – cold and bone dry air – are the basic prerequisite for viruses to be able to multiply rapidly.
At present, said Pietschmann, the external conditions are virtually perfect for the rapid spread of the viruses. One reason for this is the low temperature: similar to food that keeps longest in the refrigerator, viruses have a higher stability at low temperatures. The warmer it gets, the more difficult the conditions are for many viruses and probably also for the corona virus – provided that it behaves like the influenza virus. Both are surrounded by a lipid layer, a fat layer that is not particularly heat-resistant, so that both types of virus could be quickly destroyed with rising temperatures.
Leading virologist warns of the risk of infection if the air is too dry
For Thomas Pietschmann, the second reason for the rapid increase of SARS-CoV-2 is clearly due to the low humidity: Once the pathogens have been transported out of the airways with a strong sneeze, they literally hang in the air. Because, as the virologist explains, on cold and usually dry winter days the small droplets, together with the viruses, float in the air longer than they do at high humidity. The protective effect of the air humidity literally dissolves into nothing as soon as the heaters are running and the relative humidity in the heated room air drops to 30% or less. Viruses released into the air via aerosols then retain their full infectiousness over long periods of time. The risk of infection is further increased by the fact that the mucous membranes dry out, thus losing their natural protective effect and turning into a gateway for viral infections. For this reason, the humidity should not fall below 50% indoors at the present time.
Play it safe – check the humidity
The easiest way to control the humidity in your rooms is to use a hygrometer, such as the inexpensive BZ05 room thermohygrometer or the BZ06 from Trotec. Ideally the room humidity should be between 40 and 60%. This is also supported by studies carried out by other researchers. For example, studies have shown that at a humidity level of up to 23 percent, around three quarters of virus particles that have been coughed up are still infectious after an hour. But at a humidity level of about 43 percent, the proportion of infectious particles shrinks to only about a fifth – because the absorbed water content makes them heavier and they sink to the ground faster. The drier the air, the more comfortable the viruses feel.
Avoid excessively dry air – ensure optimum humidity
There is a solution to dry air that is as convenient as it is effective: The hygrostat-controlled Trotec humidifiers of the B series and the air washers of the AW-S series ensure optimally regulated humidity and purified room air. Thanks to their timeless design, the devices fit into any office environment, require little maintenance during operation and are attractively priced. The most important criteria for the right unit are the room sizes in the office in combination with the humidification performance.
The disc humidifier for large rooms combines high-performance evaporation with economical long-term operation. Its hydrostat-controlled humidity regulation is supplemented by a rotating vaporisation fleece, which cleans the air as well. Pleasantly low levels of operating noise and low energy consumption distinguish this device even more.
Moreover, you can expect a wide range of electric humidifiers with various functions and modern designs. From compact entry-level units to models that are also suitable for large rooms or where you can pleasantly perfume your room air by adding scented oils – a suitable evaporative humidifier is available for every need.
The low-maintenance 3-in-1 comfort device for humidification and purification. The air washer cleans and humidifies the room air without filter mats. Furthermore, the air washer binds together pollen, animal hair, house dust and even unpleasant odours thanks to the integrated plasma feature. The low-maintenance device is easy to open for filling and cleaning.
As a 3-in-1 comfort device with combination sensor and HEPA filter, this air washer provides optimum humidity and air quality at all times. Moreover, the device is perfectly suited to allergy sufferers: Thanks to the optional HEPA filter, not only house dust, pollen and animal hair are removed from the air – but also even the smallest dirt particles like fine dust, allergens or mould spores can be reliably removed by this air washer.
Reduce infection risks at the office – thanks to innovative solutions from Trotec
Find out about all of the ways our air quality management can benefit you. And why not take advantage of our current special offer prices, because you’ll be receiving Trotec brand quality:
- the BZ05 indoor thermohygrometer – now only €12.53, reduced from €19.30,
- the BZ06 indoor thermohygrometer – now only €12.53, reduced from €19.30,
- the B 400 humidifier for € 290.11,
- the B 24 E humidifier reduced from 87.00 € now only 57.97 €,
- the B 25 E humidifier reduced from 87.00 € now only 57.97 €,
- the AW 10 S air washer reduced from € 299.95, now only € 199.94,
- the AW 20 S air washer reduced from € 483.55, now only € 435.19,
incl. VAT – in the Trotec shop now!
