In regards to COVID-19, why is outdoor air “better” than indoor air?

Why is exposure risk lower outdoors?

Because of the way COVID-19 spreads, your exposure risk is lower outdoors. In fact, research suggests the chance of SARS-CoV-2 virus transmission is nearly 20 times higher indoors. When you’re outside, environmental factors work in our favor; for example, fresh open air helps disperse airborne respiratory droplets and sunlight inactivates SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces.

However, the CDC warns “the more closely you interact with others and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread.”

Learn more about impeding the spread of COVID-19:

• Tips to safely enjoy spending time outdoors from UNICEF
• Safe outdoor activities from Mayo Clinic