Social distancing and face masks are important to contain spread of COVID-19: IIT Bhubaneswar Study

Noting that controlling the virus from spreading has been a major challenge, it said the study was conducted on the efficacy of various non-standard and standard face masks under the act of sneezing.

A study at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has revealed that small droplets released during a sneeze can travel up to 25 feet without protective measures like a face mask and face shield. While highlighting the importance of social distancing, the study has stated that though the mask help to prevent leakage and reach of the sneeze within 1ft3ft, it does not completely stop the leakage of smaller droplets. The study recommends using the elbow or hand to prevent droplets leakage even after wearing a mask during coughing and sneezing, IIT Bhubaneswar said in a statement.

Noting that controlling the virus from spreading has been a major challenge, it said the study was conducted on the efficacy of various non-standard and standard face masks under the act of sneezing. The study, conducted by Dr Venugopal Arumuru, a teacher at School of Mechanical Science (SMS), and his team, confirmed that without protectives measures like a face mask, the smaller droplets expelled during a sneeze can travel up to 25ft in a stagnant environment. It confirms and also recommends a social distancing of 6ft from all orientations to prevent transmission of COVID- 19.

"In the COVID-19 scenario, the present study will improve the understanding of smaller droplets/particles dynamics in turbulent flows, which causes transmission of the virus. These visualisation results will bring awareness to wear a mask and maintain social distancing for the general public," it said. Prof R V Raja Kumar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar, said the faculty and student groups of the Institute have worked tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic by coming up with technology development and research studies of high societal relevance.

While applauding the efforts of faculty and students groups for conducting such focused studies on present societal relevance,"As well known, the spread of COVID-19 infection is mainly through droplets ejected during coughing, sneezing, and talking. The present study shows how smaller droplets can leak through various protectives measures. The importance of social distancing is clearly evident from this study."

"These results will not only spread awareness but will motivate researchers to bring innovation to face mask design. I would like to reiterate that our researchers at IIT Bhubaneswar will continue to focus on COVID-19 related research and development to help mankind in the ongoing fight against the pandemic," Raja Kumar said. 

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