Bar and restaurant terraces fill up every weekend, but not only with people. Also with bacteria. Although the open air reduces transmission, close contact and shared utensils facilitate the spread of streptococcal pharyngitis. A sore throat that can ruin the night and the following week.
How ventilation and design reduce bacterial load ðŸ¦
The transmission rate of streptococcus outdoors is lower than indoors, but not zero. Studies indicate that a distance of 1.5 meters and cross-ventilation reduce aerosol concentration by up to 70%. However, on terraces with low awnings and crowds, dispersion is limited. Space design matters: physical barriers and constant airflow are technical factors that influence the risk of infection.
The toast that ends in antibiotics 💊
Nothing like sharing a round of beers to seal a friendship. And also to seal your fate with a bottle of penicillin. Because yes, that friend who coughs over your glass doesn't do it with bad intentions, but their streptococcus does. In the end, the terrace is cool, but resting at home and the antibiotic, not so much. Cheers.