Scientists uncovered the mystery of selective flu transmission in indoor spaces

Being in the same room with a person sick with flu does not always lead to infection - especially if ventilation systems are actively working and heaters are used. Scientists from the University of Maryland came to this conclusion following an unusual experiment.

As reported by TUT.AZ with reference to the PLOS Pathogens journal, five students with confirmed flu and eleven healthy middle-aged volunteers participated in the study. For two weeks, they lived on an isolated floor of a hotel, simulating ordinary household interactions - conversations, joint activities, and being in the same room. Surprisingly, despite close contact, none of the healthy participants became infected.

Scientists revealed several interesting factors explaining the result. The sick participants hardly coughed, which significantly reduced the concentration of viral particles in the air. In addition, constantly working ventilation, heaters, and air dehumidifiers effectively reduced the viral load in the room. The age of the volunteers also proved to be a significant protective factor - middle-aged individuals show significantly less susceptibility to the influenza virus compared to young people.

"Coughing remains the main risk factor for virus transmission, especially in rooms with stagnant air," the researchers emphasize.

To minimize the risk of infection, experts strongly recommend using portable air purifiers and wearing N95 protective masks, especially when in poorly ventilated spaces.