COVID-19 Transmission in Cars

How is COVID-19 transmitted?

COVID-19 is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can travel through the air and land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. People who are in close contact with an infected person (within about 6 feet) are at highest risk of infection.

Can COVID-19 be transmitted in cars?

Yes, COVID-19 can be transmitted in cars, especially if the car is not well-ventilated and people are in close contact for a long period of time.

What are the risks of COVID-19 transmission in cars?

The risks of COVID-19 transmission in cars depend on a number of factors, including the following:

• The number of people in the car. The more people in the car, the higher the risk of transmission.
• The length of time people spend in the car. The longer people spend in the car, the higher the risk of transmission.
• The ventilation in the car. Cars that are not well-ventilated are more likely to have high levels of respiratory droplets in the air, which can increase the risk of transmission.
• The type of activity people are engaged in in the car. Activities that involve talking, singing, or shouting can produce more respiratory droplets and increase the risk of transmission.

How can I reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in cars?

There are a number of things you can do to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in cars, including the following:

• Limit the number of people in the car. If possible, only travel with people who live in your household.
• Limit the length of time you spend in the car. If you have to travel with others, try to keep your trips as short as possible.
• Ventilate the car. Open the windows or turn on the air conditioning to circulate the air in the car.
• Wear a mask. Everyone in the car should wear a mask to reduce the risk of transmission.
• Avoid talking, singing, or shouting in the car. If you need to talk, keep your voice low and speak for short periods of time.

What if someone in my car has COVID-19?

If someone in your car has COVID-19, you should take the following steps:

• Pull over and park the car in a safe location.
• Everyone in the car should put on a mask.
• Open the windows or turn on the air conditioning to circulate the air in the car.
• Contact the local health department for instructions.

Conclusion

COVID-19 can be transmitted in cars, but there are a number of things you can do to reduce the risk of transmission. By following the tips outlined above, you can help to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.