Finally out – that's what many people think after work, who then dare to step outside again. Alone, of course, or in pairs, as the Federal Government currently prohibits contact. The jogging round becomes the corona crisis for many people an important balance to home office and exit restrictions. (Here you can find out what is still allowed)
However, anyone entering the park quickly realizes that you are not alone with this idea at the moment. Instead, it is swarming in public green spaces with people walking or playing sports. You get a queasy feeling: Can I also get the Corona virus while jogging?
The question of infection mainly depends on two factors: how long the coronavirus stays in the air and how close you get to other people.
Sports doctor Perikles Simon generally recommended physical activity in the "Tagesspiegel" – after all, exercise strengthens the immune system. And that is currently our only protection in the fight against the corona virus. However, one should strictly maintain the minimum distance from other people, be it walkers or other runners. Because viruses could spread like smoke in the air around a sick person:
Therefore, it is quite possible that you will get infected while jogging or just get others if you do not keep the distance of two meters.
How long corona viruses would hang in the air also depends on the weather, Simon explains in the interview. A damp climate and no wind would further increase the risk of infection. In general, one cannot conclusively guarantee how long the viruses will remain in the air. When coughing and sneezing, for example, they should sink to the ground much faster than with a fine spray, as used in studies, to answer this question. An investigation for the detection of coronaviruses was recently published in the "New England Journal of Medicine". Accordingly, it cannot be ruled out at least to be infected through the air.
How can I protect myself from the corona virus while jogging?
In summary, even when jogging there is a residual risk of contracting the corona virus. So you should reduce this as much as possible by keeping your distance, and on the other hand, better jogging in good weather. You should also not overexert yourself, because the body is more susceptible after high intensity.
In general, however, sport is still recommended to keep our immune system and our body fit!
Sources used: Pulmonologists online, Tagesspiegel, n-tv