In recent months, the media have reported a possible relationship between the spread of the coronavirus and use of air conditioning. However, various medical societies and federations are skeptical and point out the lack of scientific evidence about the possibility that air conditioning facilitate the spread of the virus.
Given the concern raised by public opinion, the Spanish Society for Environmental Health (SESA) and the Spanish Society for Public Health and Health Administration (SESPAS) have positioned themselves on the possible transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through the air conditioning.
Regarding the risk of transmission, they said that "since the probability of the virus entering the air conditioning or air extraction system and spreading through the ducts is very low, sufficient air renewal should be guaranteed, capturing the outside air in an appropriate place , and favoring renovation with respect to climate comfort and energy efficiency”. Despite these statements, they recommend taking certain measures in our homes in Mallorca if we are going to use air conditioning.
It should be noted that in a home this recommendation for use is easier than in commercial premises. Normally in Mallorca houses the cooling or heating is done by wall splits or by another systems that takes air from the street. This outside air is not compromised for Covid-19 and does not pose a risk. However, it is still convenient to open the windows to ventilate every day.
Another measure that could favor prevention is the correct cleaning and replacement of filters in air conditioning units. In addition to possibly preventing COVID-19 infection in our homes, it would eliminate the possible appearance of another health problems, such as outbreaks of Legionella and the appearance of fungi such as aspergillus (mold).
On the other hand, one of the fake news that is being disclosed is that SARS-CoV-2 reproduces in ventilation systems. The virus cannot reproduce in ventilation systems.
That is why a responsible use and proper maintenance of our air conditioning installations seem to be enough to protect our health and the health of our family.