Photo via NST
We know it sounds crazy, but you just can’t make this stuff up!
It seems scientists in the UK, the US and Norway have found that if you’re above 6ft tall, you double your chances of testing positive for COVID-19.
The results don’t necessarily mean tall people are genetically more likely to catch the virus, but instead indicate that it can spread through tiny particles called aerosols that linger in the air after being exhaled.
Thus, taller people would be more at risk of the airborne virus.
Health officials previously said they believe the virus is transmitting through large droplets which travel short distances before falling to the ground like when you sneeze or cough.
However, the results of this survey in terms of associations between height and coronavirus diagnosis suggest downward droplet transmission is not the only transmission mechanism and aerosol transmission is possible.
This study has yet to be peer-reviewed, but the researchers felt it was crucial that its findings be made public, as more and more societies start to reopen.
Having said that, more research needs to be done to see whether taller people are indeed at higher risk of being infected due to aerosols.
Also, more studies are required to determine what amount of viral load in aerosols is enough to infect a person.
But whether this theory ends up being a fact or not, it can indicate that face masks may be an even more vital prevention method than social distancing.
So whenever you’re heading out in public, be sure to wear a face mask, while also adhering to other SOPs put in place like practise social distancing, and maintain good personal hygiene.
And don’t forget! It’s mandatory to wear a face mask out in public starting August 1st (Saturday).
Stay safe, everyone!
Sources: Metro, BGR
by Kyle Roshen Jacob
