more-lifestyleUpdated: Jun 11, 2020 16:15 ISTWhile higher heat and humidity may slow the spread of COVID-19, longer hours of sunlight are associated with a higher incidence of the disease, according to a study. The research, published in the journal Geographical Analysis, indicates that sunny days can tempt more people out even if this means a higher risk of infection. The findings by researchers led by McMaster University in Canada inform the widespread scientific debate over how seasonal changes, specifically warmer weather, might shape the spread of COVID-19. While research has shown that pathogens such as influenza and SARS thrive in lower temperatures and humidity, little is known about SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, the researchers said. At higher levels of heat and humidity, researchers found that for every percentage increase, there was a 3 per cent decline in the incidence of COVID-19, possibly because warmer temperatures curtail the viability of the virus.

Source: Hindustan Times June 11, 2020 10:44 UTC