Is the Covid bug airborne and is it really safe to go back to the gym?

Q I heard that coronavirus might be airborne. What does that mean?

A Airborne transmission is when a virus is spread in tiny particles, exhaled by someone, which can stay suspended in the air before coming into contact with other people.

This is thought to occur with some types of viral infection, for example measles.

At the moment, the evidence suggests coronavirus is primarily spread by droplets expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, shouts or sings. These droplets may land on surfaces, where other people come into contact with them, or may land directly on other people nearby.

However, the World Health Organisation has said there is ‘emerging evidence’ of airborne transmission of coronavirus.

An official added that the possibility of this happening in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces should not be ruled out.

If confirmed, it could affect social-distancing guidelines for indoor spaces – and make the argument for wearing masks inside much stronger.

And, if airborne transmission of coronavirus is found to take place, scientists will need to work out if it is a major contributor to infection, or a rare one.

Q Is it really safe to go back to my gym or swimming pool?

A The opening of gyms and pools has had to be done carefully, because of the increased risk of Covid-19 spreading indoors.

Indoor facilities will be able to open from July 25, while outdoor pools reopened yesterday.

Leisure facilities have the ideal conditions for the virus to pass from person to person. They are usually filled with lots of people in close proximity to one another, often breathing heavily while exercising, and equipment is shared.

To limit these risks, strict new social-distancing guidelines will be introduced. These include limits on the number of people able to use facilities at any one time, reduced class sizes, one-way systems and more space between equipment. Customers will be encouraged to shower and change at home.

Gym-goers do not have to wear masks, but, Government advice is that they should be worn in enclosed public spaces where social distancing is not possible.

Indoor gyms in Northern Ireland reopened on Friday, but no date has been set for Wales or Scotland.