Social distancing recommendations simply might not work when people are indoors. A recent study from South Korea, and reported in the LA Times, shows that even a five-minute interaction with someone 20 feet away can lead to infection.
The 15-minute within 6 feet definition of “close contact” definition may not be set in stone.
So, what does that mean for your holiday plans?
Unfortunately, it means you should rethink them. Estimates suggest that around 50 percent of people with COVID-19 aren’t aware they have it.
Even if you’re feeling the best you have in years, or your son says he feels great, it doesn’t necessarily mean much. Stay in your respective homes during the holidays and heed the advice of many public health officials.
This new data suggests that even brief contact between people in indoor settings can lead to transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A growing body of data indicates larger particles of virus are circulating in the air and can easily cause infection.
Air circulation and filtration are likely central to the virus. So, unless your home is fitted with a state-of-the-art filtration and circulation system, being within six feet of somebody without masks is a high-risk situation.
The Korean study isn’t the first to show how easily the virus can spread indoors.
If you’re concerned about your health, the health of your family, and the health of your community, finding holiday alternatives is the best way to show it.
Meet with family and friends virtually and adopt a new tradition for the season. Hopefully, next year you’ll be back sitting around the table with loved ones.