Virus spreads easier in low humidity environment

GEORGE TOWN: Any virus will spread more easily in an air-conditioned environment, where humidity will be much lower, says an expert.

USM virology scientist Dr Muhammad Amir Yunus said typically, the humidity in air-conditioned spaces would be low and this contributed to the transmission of viruses in droplets.

“Relative humidity will affect the transmission of airborne virus on top of poor ventilation.

“High humidity can partially inhibit the travel of viruses in droplets and aerosols,” he said.

Dr Muhammad Amir said he was not aware of any hard and fast rules on the value of ventilation to prevent the transmission of viruses.

He, however, pointed out that there was direct correlation between poor ventilation and carbon dioxide levels.

“Higher carbon dioxide levels can be used as an indicator for poor ventilation or air circulation indoors,” he said.

He said the recent announcement on the tax-exempted expenses for renovations and refurbishments of premises would definitely be beneficial.

“The system is not cheap. It involves many components.

“The tax cut will encourage businesses to pay attention to this aspect, which very directly relates to public safety,” he said.