Low humidity is bad because it can increase the risk of catching airborne viruses and cause discomfort and health issues related to dry skin.
Health Implications of Low Humidity
Low humidity, typically defined as humidity levels below 30%, can negatively impact your health in several ways:
- Increased Virus Transmission: Very dry air allows airborne viruses like the flu and common cold to survive longer and spread more easily. This is because the droplets containing viruses evaporate faster, allowing them to remain suspended in the air for extended periods.
- Nasal Irritation and Susceptibility to Infection: Dry air can irritate the nasal passages, making them more susceptible to infections. The natural protective barrier of the nasal mucosa can dry out, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to enter the body.
- Worsening of Skin Conditions: Low humidity exacerbates dry skin and conditions like eczema. The lack of moisture in the air draws moisture from the skin, leading to dryness, itching, and cracking.
Other Negative Effects
Besides health concerns, low humidity can also lead to:
- Discomfort: Dry air can cause general discomfort, including dry eyes, a scratchy throat, and chapped lips.
- Damage to Property: Extremely low humidity can damage wooden furniture, musical instruments, and artwork by causing them to dry out and crack.
- Increased Static Electricity: Dry air is a poor conductor of electricity, which leads to an increase in static electricity shocks.
In summary, low humidity creates an environment that favors the spread of airborne viruses, irritates the skin and respiratory system, and can damage property. Maintaining adequate humidity levels, ideally between 30% and 50%, is important for overall health and well-being.
