Why Controlled Mechanical Ventilation is an enemy of Covid
The use of controlled mechanical ventilation systems in enclosed areas can actually make the difference in the battle against Covid-19: numerous studies have shown how stagnant air (eradicated by systems known as CMV) is one of the main causes of the spread of the virus.
Among the many recommendations of governments and experts, is that awareness should be raised of the importance of the regular airing of houses, offices and shops. With the right measures and a little bit of care, the risk of infection can be considerably reduced.
The correlation between Covid-19 and CMV explained in detail
The danger of crowded environments (especially indoors) is due to the fact that the air in such places tends to stagnate. If a carrier of the coronavirus enters a room where many people are present, that person can spread the pathogen simply by breathing.
The aerosol particles emitted during that natural process (propelled further by coughs and sneezes) remain suspended in the air for some time and before falling to rest on surfaces, can ‘attack’ anyone who happens to be nearby.
Although these particles can only travel very limited distances, poorly ventilated surrounding areas are fertile territory for a potential increase in infection. This proven phenomenon is the reason behind the need to avoid gatherings and why rooms must be aired regularly, using controlled mechanical ventilation where possible.
Advantages of CMV
The simplest way to ensure that rooms are adequately aired (especially in homes), is to open the windows for a few hours each day; this solution, which can be used when other alternatives are unavailable, has been shown to have no quantifiable impact on Covid.
Controlled mechanical ventilation guarantees the secure purification of rooms which helps to contain the virus. Among the advantages of CMV is, first of all, the possibility to ensure a continuous flow of clean air inside enclosed areas.
This enables the infected aerosol particles to be easily diluted and carried outside the building, where they can disperse into the atmosphere, minimising the risk of anyone being infected.
Another benefit of this technology is its ability to filter the air. Controlled mechanical ventilation systems (especially those with double flow, often used in offices and public spaces) are fitted with high-efficiency filters, which are able to block contaminant particles and viral pathogens.
How to protect against unclean air
Almost every family owns either an air-conditioning or ventilation system. Although not as efficient as MCV, they are still able to improve the air quality in domestic environments considerably. In order for this equipment to provide real results however, it must undergo regular maintenance.
As well as ensuring it is working correctly (perhaps having it checked by an expert technician), it is a good idea to clean the filters and surfaces of the equipment regularly. The most efficient tool against the Covid-19 pathogen is a cloth dipped in a detergent containing at least 75% ethyl alcohol (simple soap and water work too).
In public places where controlled mechanical ventilation systems are present, microclimate parameters, such as temperature, relative humidity and CO2 levels must be constantly monitored. In order to fight coronavirus, it is equally important to limit air recycling as much as possible and to change the filter pack regularly, (fitting it, where possible, with specific anti-Covid filters).
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
